When Split Happens

Military deployment can create unique challenges for parents navigating custody and time-sharing in Florida. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains how Florida law protects the parental rights of deployed service members and what families can do to prepare before deployment.Jay discusses whether deployment can affect custody, how parenting plans should address military service, temporary modifications during deployment, virtual communication with children, delegation of time-sharing to family members, and why courts generally cannot make permanent custody changes based solely on military deployment.Whether you're an active-duty service member, military spouse, or co-parent, this episode offers practical guidance on protecting your parental rights while balancing the realities of military service.If you're facing a military custody issue in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, understanding these legal protections can help you create a parenting plan that works both during and after deployment.This episode is part of our ongoing series covering military divorce and family law issues affecting service members and their families in Florida.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

Military retirement benefits are often one of the most valuable assets in a military divorce, and dividing them involves both Florida family law and federal regulations. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains how military pensions are treated during divorce and why these cases require careful planning.Jay discusses how Florida's equitable distribution laws apply to military retirement, the role of the Uniformed Services Former Spouses' Protection Act (USFSPA), and the significance of the 10/10 Rule. He also explains how courts calculate a spouse's share of military retirement benefits, common mistakes involving DFAS orders, and why properly drafted pension division orders are critical.Whether you're an active-duty service member, veteran, or military spouse, this episode provides a practical overview of the rules that can have a lasting impact on your financial future.If you're facing a military divorce in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, understanding how military retirement benefits are divided can help you make informed decisions throughout the process.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

Military divorce follows many of the same rules as a traditional Florida divorce, but federal laws can create additional challenges involving jurisdiction, deployment, retirement benefits, and military-specific protections. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains the key differences between military and civilian divorce cases.Jay discusses common issues facing military families, including residency requirements, jurisdiction questions, the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), military retirement benefits, and eligibility for certain military spouse benefits after divorce. He also explains why military divorces often require careful planning to avoid costly mistakes involving both state and federal law.Whether you're an active-duty service member, reservist, veteran, or military spouse, this episode provides a practical overview of the unique considerations that can impact a Florida military divorce.If you're facing a military divorce in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, understanding these issues early can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions throughout the process.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com. Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

In some Florida custody cases, the court may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to investigate and provide recommendations focused on a child’s best interests. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains what a Guardian ad Litem does, when one may be appointed, and how the process can affect a custody case.Jay discusses the role of a GAL in high-conflict parenting disputes, cases involving allegations of abuse or neglect, and situations where the court needs additional information before making decisions about custody or time-sharing. He also explains how GAL investigations work, who may request one, how costs are handled, and whether judges are required to follow a GAL’s recommendations.For parents involved in custody litigation in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, understanding the role of a Guardian ad Litem can help reduce uncertainty and prepare you for what to expect during the process.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

A parenting plan is one of the most important parts of any Florida custody case—and vague schedules can lead to years of conflict. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains how detailed a Florida timesharing schedule should be and why specificity matters.Jay discusses the key components of a strong parenting plan, including weekly schedules, holiday rotations, summer and school-break arrangements, exchange logistics, communication methods, and decision-making responsibilities. He also explains why terms like “reasonable timesharing” often create problems and how unclear parenting plans can lead parents back to court.Whether you’re creating a parenting plan for the first time or considering modifications later, this episode highlights how detailed scheduling can reduce misunderstandings and help protect long-term co-parenting stability.If you’re navigating custody or timesharing issues in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, this episode provides practical guidance on building a parenting plan that works in real life and under Florida law.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com. Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

If you’re considering divorce in Jacksonville, one of the first questions is: where do you actually file your case? In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains how filing works in Duval County and what you need to know to get started correctly.Jay breaks down how divorce cases are handled through the Fourth Judicial Circuit Court of Florida, including where Duval County residents file, how venue works when spouses live in different locations, and what happens after a case is submitted. He also covers practical details like e-filing, service of process, and where hearings typically take place.Whether you’re filing on your own or working with an attorney, understanding the correct court and filing process can help you avoid delays and keep your case moving forward.If you’re navigating divorce in Jacksonville or Duval County, this episode provides a clear overview of how the local court system works and what to expect.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

Many people starting a divorce or custody case in Florida ask the same question: Do I really need a lawyer, or can I handle this myself? In this episode of When Split Happens, Jacksonville family law attorney Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains when a do-it-yourself approach may work—and when hiring an attorney is the smarter choice.Jay outlines the limited situations where a simplified divorce may be appropriate, such as when both spouses fully agree and there are no children or complex financial issues. He also explains why cases involving children, significant assets, or disagreement quickly become more complicated and require careful legal planning.The episode covers common risks of DIY filing, including incomplete parenting plans, improper division of assets like retirement accounts, and the challenges of navigating financial disclosure or legal procedures without representation. Jay also discusses how having an attorney can help protect your rights when there is an imbalance of information or when the other party has legal counsel.For individuals in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida trying to decide how to approach a divorce or custody case, this episode provides practical guidance to help you choose the right path from the start.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains what it actually means to be a board-certified marital and family law attorney in Florida.Jay walks through the exact standards set by The Florida Bar, including the required years of practice, documented case experience, specialty continuing legal education, the written certification exam, and the confidential peer review process.You’ll also learn why board certification is considered the highest level of attorney evaluation in Florida, how few lawyers earn the designation, and why it can be an important quality signal when choosing a divorce or custody attorney.If you’re navigating divorce, custody, or other family law issues in Florida, this episode helps clarify what attorney credentials really mean and how they can affect your choice of representation.Learn more at familylawyerjax.comConnect with us: Follow us for more Florida family law insights and updates. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@sgh_law TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sghlaw_ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sghfamlaw/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SGHLawTopics covered: board-certified family law attorney Florida, Florida Bar board certification, Jacksonville divorce lawyer, family law specialist Florida.

Filing for divorce in Florida requires more than just submitting a single form. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jacksonville family law attorney Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite explains the key documents required to start a divorce case and why getting the paperwork right from the beginning can prevent delays and complications.Jay walks through the core forms used to open a Florida divorce case, including the Petition for Dissolution of Marriage, Civil Cover Sheet, and Summons, and explains how these documents officially begin the legal process. He also discusses how to prove Florida residency, what financial disclosures both spouses must provide, and why transparency with bank accounts, income, and debts is required under Florida law.For parents, the episode covers additional filings such as parenting plans and child custody jurisdiction affidavits, as well as the parenting course requirement often needed before a divorce can be finalized. Jay also discusses commonly asked questions about supporting documents like marital settlement agreements, child support worksheets, and whether missing or incorrect forms can delay a case.If you’re preparing to file for divorce in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, this episode provides a practical checklist of the documents and disclosures required under Florida law.Learn more about Florida divorce and family law at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

Relocation after divorce is one of the most misunderstood areas of Florida family law. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite, a Jacksonville family law attorney with Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, explains how Florida courts handle relocation cases and what parents must do before moving with a child.Jay breaks down what legally qualifies as relocation under Florida law, when parental consent is enough, and when court approval is required. He explains the strict requirements for filing a relocation petition, the relocation-specific best interests standard courts apply, and why relocation is treated differently from ordinary custody modifications. The episode also covers how courts evaluate job opportunities, financial benefits, and the impact a move may have on a child’s stability and relationship with the non-relocating parent.For parents in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida who are considering a move—or facing a proposed relocation by a co-parent—this episode offers clear guidance on legal risks, timing issues, and strategic considerations under Florida’s relocation statute.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com.Follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for Florida family law insights, legal updates, and practical guidance.

Divorce involving military service raises unique legal issues under both Florida and federal law. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite, a Jacksonville family law attorney with Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, explains what service members and military spouses need to know before filing for divorce in Florida.This episode covers how jurisdiction and residency apply to active-duty service members, when being stationed in Florida satisfies the six-month residency requirement, and why Florida courts may have authority over the divorce itself but not over custody, child support, or property division. Jay also explains the role of the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA), how deployments affect parenting plans, and how Florida courts treat military pay, housing allowances, and retirement benefits.If you are a service member or military spouse in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, this episode offers clear, practical guidance on navigating military divorce while protecting your rights and your family’s future.Learn more at familylawyerjax.com and follow Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube for clear, real-world guidance on Florida divorce, custody, and family law issues.

Unmarried fathers in Florida often feel unsure about where they stand legally—especially when it comes to custody, time-sharing, and decision-making for their children. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite, a Jacksonville family law attorney with Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, breaks down what rights unmarried fathers do—and do not—have under Florida law.Jay explains why fathers do not automatically receive parental rights at birth when the parents are unmarried, and why establishing paternity is the critical first step. Without paternity, a father has no enforceable right to custody, visitation, or involvement in major decisions. Once paternity is legally established, fathers may seek time-sharing, shared parental responsibility, and equal consideration in custody matters.This episode covers how Florida courts handle parenting cases involving unmarried parents, including how paternity is established, whether mothers are favored in custody decisions, when 50/50 time-sharing may be appropriate, and how parental responsibility and child support are legally connected.Jay also discusses why delaying action can make it harder to change an existing parenting arrangement—particularly for fathers in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, where courts prioritize stability and a child’s best interests.If you are an unmarried father with questions about paternity, custody, or child support in Florida, this episode provides practical guidance to help you understand your rights and options.Connect With Sasso Guerrero & HenderliteFollow us for Florida family law insights, legal education, and updates on divorce, custody, child support, and paternity cases in Jacksonville and throughout Northeast Florida.InstagramFacebookTikTokYouTubeLearn more about our Florida family law practice at familylawyerjax.com.

In this episode of When Split Happens, Jacksonville family law attorney Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite answers a question that surprises many couples: Do you have to be legally separated before filing for divorce in Florida? The short answer is no—but Florida’s divorce laws have important rules every spouse should understand before filing.Jay explains why Florida does not recognize legal separation, how the state’s no-fault divorce system works, and what legally replaces separation under Florida law. Listeners will learn the two requirements for filing a divorce in Florida—the six-month residency rule and the standard of “irretrievable breakdown of the marriage.”This episode also covers common concerns for couples who are living apart but not yet divorced, including:Whether living separately affects divorce, custody, or time-sharing decisionsHow income, debts, and marital assets are treated during separationWhat happens if one spouse disagrees that the marriage is overWhether Florida recognizes trial separations or separation agreementsHow parents can establish temporary support or custody without filing for divorceWhen a petition for support unconnected with dissolution may be appropriateJay also discusses how informal separation can impact parenting arrangements, financial rights, and future court decisions—especially for families in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida.If you’re considering divorce, recently separated, or trying to understand your legal options before taking the next step, this episode provides clear, Florida-specific guidance from an experienced Jacksonville divorce attorney.Learn more about Florida divorce and family law at familylawyerjax.com.Connect with us on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, & TikTok

In this episode of When Split Happens, Jacksonville family law attorney Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite breaks down when and how child support can be modified under Florida Statute 61.14. Learn what counts as a substantial, permanent, and involuntary change in circumstances, how courts recalculate support, and why timing matters more than most parents realize.Jay covers:How income changes, job loss, medical needs, or therapy costs may justify a modificationWhen courts impute income for voluntary underemploymentWhy agreements between parents aren’t valid until approved by a judgeThe complete modification process, including petitions, financial affidavits, and mediationCommon issues for military and offshore-working parents in Northeast FloridaMistakes that can cost parents thousands in back supportIf you’re navigating changes in finances, childcare costs, or your child’s needs, this Florida-specific guide helps you understand whether you meet the legal standard for modification in Jacksonville and surrounding counties.Connect with Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite:familylawyerjax.comInstagramFacebookTikTokYouTube

In this episode of When Split Happens, attorney Jay Henderlite of Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in Florida family law — the belief that mothers automatically get custody. Jay explains how Florida’s custody laws are gender-neutral, how courts apply the “best interests of the child” standard, and why both parents start on equal footing.You’ll learn what judges look for when determining time-sharing, how the 2023 presumption of 50/50 custody works, and when equal time may not be appropriate. Jay also shares practical tips for parents in Jacksonville who are preparing for divorce, separation, or a custody case, including how to show involvement, maintain stability, and communicate effectively with the co-parent.About Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite (Jacksonville, FL): Family law attorneys serving Northeast Florida in divorce, child custody, child support, parenting plans, and paternity cases.Follow Us: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, & YouTube

What really matters in a Florida family courtroom? It’s not about defeating the other parent—it’s about creating stability for your children. In this episode of When Split Happens, Jay Henderlite of Sasso, Guerrero & Henderlite explains how Florida family law judges decide custody and time-sharing cases based on the best interests of the child.Learn what “stability” means in Florida custody law, how to show consistent involvement as a parent, and what behaviors can strengthen—or hurt—your case. This episode is essential for parents navigating divorce, custody, or family law issues in Jacksonville and the First Coast.Sasso, Guerrero & Henderlite 218 E. Ashley St Jacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 619-1386 familylawyerjax.com Follow: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube

Are prenups just for the wealthy or a sign of distrust? In Episode 3 of "When Split Happens," Jacksonville’s board-certified family law attorney Jay Henderlite debunks prenup myths, revealing how prenuptial agreements foster trust and fairness under Florida law. Learn how prenups clarify asset division, protect businesses or inheritances, and simplify divorce, while understanding what they can’t do—like set child custody.Jay answers key questions: Are prenups enforceable in Florida? Can you create one after marriage? How do they benefit both partners? Tailored for Northeast Florida couples planning marriage or navigating divorce, this episode delivers expert advice to secure your financial future.Join "When Split Happens" for ongoing family law guidance, explore FamilyLawyerJax.com for tailored support from Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite’s board-certified team, or connect with us on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook or YouTube for divorce insights. Build your future with confidence today!

When can a child choose their parent in Florida custody cases? On "When Split Happens," Jacksonville family law attorney Jay Henderlite answers this in Episode 2. Debunking myths about age-based choice, Jay explains how Florida courts prioritize a child’s best interests over ages like 12 or 16. Learn how judges assess a child’s maturity, why private discussions shield kids from conflict, and what to do if a teen refuses visitation. Jay simplifies Florida custody laws, the child’s voice, and parenting plan modifications. Tailored for Northeast Florida parents navigating divorce or custody disputes, this episode delivers expert advice to ensure your child’s stability. Join "When Split Happens" for ongoing family law guidance, check out FamilyLawyerJax.com for tailored support from Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite, or engage with us on Instagram, YouTube, Tik Tok or Facebook for divorce tips and updates. Start your custody journey with practical advice now!

Start the school year right with "When Split Happens," your guide to navigating divorce and family law. In this premiere episode, host Jay Henderlite, a dedicated family law attorney at Sasso Guerrero & Henderlite in Jacksonville, Florida, shares expert co-parenting tips for the back-to-school season. Using a simple framework—rules, routines, and relationships—Jay explains how to minimize stress and conflict. Learn:Why adhering to your Florida parenting plan is crucialHow shared calendars ensure stabilityWays to foster positive communication for your child’s academic and emotional successJay answers key questions, like who covers school supplies post-divorce and whether one parent can alter schedules without consent. Tailored for parents navigating custody or co-parenting challenges, this episode delivers practical strategies to help kids thrive. Subscribe to "When Split Happens" for more family law insights, and visit familylawyerjax.com for personalized support from our experienced team. Empower your co-parenting journey with clear, actionable advice today!Sasso, Guerrero & Henderlite 218 E. Ashley St Jacksonville, FL 32202 (904) 619-1386 Follow: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, YouTube