Ask a Question

Get free answers to your legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Questions Answered by Rand Scott Lieber
1 Answer | Asked in Child Support, Family Law and Workers' Compensation for Florida on
Q: How do I get money back from the department of revenue that was taken in a workman's compensation settlement via a lien

They state made a clerical error claiming I owed child support on a child I had full custody of. When I received my settlement the state had claimed I owed 13000 and took half the money even though I never owed it.

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 24, 2024

You will probably need to file a motion with the court that issued the child support order to get your money back. Once the order is signed by the judge you can then present it to the agency that is holding your money. Of course, first try to work directly with the agency to get the refund.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for Florida on
Q: If you father a child with a married woman, who has been separated from said husband for years, what rights do you have?

The one who fathered the child has financially helped the Mother and child since birth. He has been getting her alternate weekends and a few hours every Tuesday and Thursday since she has been able to walk. She is mad at the father at the present and is withholding the child.

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 17, 2024

Legally, the man that the woman was married to at the time of the birth is the "legal father." This can be changed but you must take the mother to court on a paternity/ disestablishment of paternity case. You will need to include the man that she is/was married to in the lawsuit. Speak... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: In Florida, how likely would it be that an absent father would get custody and / or visitation? I need some legal advice

Sons dad resides in NY. My son & I reside in FL (son was born here) Sons dad has accused me of parental alienation since the birth of our child. He has always had a phone # to contact me & address. Ex has seen our 8 y/o son twice since he was born in 2015. I brought our son to NY in 2019... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 16, 2024

The legal standard in Florida is what is in the best interest of the child. If a parent has been absent for an extended period the court is not going to thrust them together. Reunification is possible but can be a lengthy process. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Florida on
Q: Do I have to follow me and my exs time sharing agreement even though she doesn't live in her documented state?

I have a time sharing custudy agreement. I also have residential custody of my son that is based out of his mother living in Pennsylvania but she hasn't lived there in years and now resides on the east coast of Florida. Nothing has been changed in the courts on her end. I also live in... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 16, 2024

Both of you are bound by whatever it says in your parenting plan. If you want to change the plan then you need to go back to court for a modification. As long as you are both following the parenting plan you can each live wherever you choose. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Divorce for Florida on
Q: Jurisdiction:- Florida (west palm beach)Family law matterNeed information (as explained below) re dismissal

Brief overview:

* I am the petitioner / applicant - I filed the petition to divorce Oct 2023 in west palm beach county

* The case was badly managed, various delays / I was badly represented by my US attorneys. I am no longer represented.

* She filed a counter petition... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 6, 2024

This may be a question for an Australian lawyer regarding filing there. As far as Florida goes, you can request a case management conference (status conference) with the judge. Look online for the judge's division procedures for scheduling instructions. You have the power to unilaterally... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Florida on
Q: What would be the next thing to do while waiting on pending information from hearing on petitioner modification filed.

I have a custody case now open and the father of the child will not abide by the court orders as far as parenting plan given from different state. Case was thrown out because of jurisdiction and is now open here in state of FL. What is the next steps so I can get 50/50 here in FL as the case is at... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 6, 2024

You are always able to request a case management conference (status conference) with the judge. Look online for your judge's division procedures and there should be instructions for scheduling. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody and Family Law for Florida on
Q: I am currently still married to my daughter’s father we have been separated for four years. We have no custody agreement

My daughter lives with me and sees her father every other weekend and he has never paid child support. I want to move to Alabama so my daughter can grow up with her cousins since we have no family here. Getting a job wouldn’t be an issue and we could stay with family until finding a place to... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 5, 2024

If you are still married then you both have equal rights over the child. Technically you can move without his permission; however, if he goes to the court you could be ordered to return. The better path is to either reach an agreement with him or go to court with a divorce/ relocation case. Speak... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: Has a pro se registered individual in a divorce case. What is the process to file for a hearing for the court?

JAWS appears to be only for attorneys. I have filed two motions that I want to bring in front of the court.

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 3, 2024

Look up the division procedures for your judge online. There should be instructions on how to request and schedule a hearing. There should also be a phone number and/or email for the judicial assistant. That is the person with whom you need to communicate. Speak with a local family attorney for... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Florida on
Q: My daughter lost rights to children didn't finish her program her husband is sending kids to mexico to his family ?

They live together still married can she stop kids from going alone to his family she's with children and husband thx

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 3, 2024

You need to carefully read the order that says "your daughter lost rights to children." That is where it will say if the father has the ability to send the children to Mexico. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: I was married and divorced in Alabama but lived between Al and Fl.I would like my personal belongings that are in Fl

He’s a narcissist and am fearful of being alone.

I have to pack and will need assistance from my son

He can keep the furniture but would like half of the $

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Jun 3, 2024

You say that you are already divorced. You will need to read the divorce decree carefully. It should say how your property was divided, regardless of where it is located. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Child Custody and Domestic Violence for Florida on
Q: My ex wife has an injunction against me. I am attending BIP and on probation. The injunction currently only allows for

Supervised visitation of my 2 year old son. When I complete BIP and get off probation, Does that qualify as a change of circumstance and allow me to modify the injunction to request unsupervised custody of my son at my home? No family case at the moment. We are still married. Divorce has not been... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 31, 2024

You can always file a motion to modify the conditions of the injunction. You do not mention if there is also a family case. You may be able to modify sooner than the end of your program and probation. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Florida on
Q: Is my baby daddy responsible for a potion of the rent even if he doesn’t live with us ?

We split our baby’s expenses half and half and I was wondering if a portion (half of the baby’s room) should be included in the monthly expenses we’re both responsible for. Thank you

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 31, 2024

Child support is a specific amount paid based on the parent's incomes based on a formula in the law. Once chid support is paid the recipient can use it for whatever they want. It is not tied to any specific expens (like rent). Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Florida on
Q: Does my son's father have to have custody to enroll him in school in TN and to take him to Dr visits
Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 31, 2024

In Florida, assuming that you are not married, it is the mother who starts with all custodial rights. Once you go to court for a paternity case then through shared parental responsibility both parents can make decisions as long as they are in agreement. If you are in agreement with the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: does a divorce overseas count in the united states

Marriied in the usa and at a catholic church overseas. marriage recorded in the foreign country.

if i divorce in the foreign country will i be also divorced in the united states

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 30, 2024

As long as the overseas divorce is legal where it takes place then the US will also recognize the divorce. Make sure that you notify the other party of the proceedings. If your intention is to divorce without your spouse being aware of the proceedings then that can create a problem. Speak with a... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Child Custody for Florida on
Q: I was just awarded sole custody of my son (17 months old) - do I need father’s permission to obtain a passport for him?
Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 27, 2024

You need to read the court order that awarded you custody. It may or may not allow you to obtain a passport without the other parent's consent. If it does not then you must either have the other parent sign the appropriate form or get a court order that gives you authority. Speak with a local... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law for Florida on
Q: My daughter passed away last September and I am the caregiver however the father has recently been released from prison

and he wants weekend visiting but he is a stranger to my youngest granddaughter he spent most of her life denying he was her father. My oldest granddaughter is 9 and remember him choking her momma and all the fighting. We have taken them to have an assessment with a therapist and they are on a... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 23, 2024

You need to seek guidance from the court. Is there a court order that makes you the caregiver? Is there a court order that defines the father's rights? If not then you need to get one. You will not be able to exclude the father from the children's life but the court will make sure that... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: Can I fire my current divorce lawyer 3 weeks before a divorce trial
Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 22, 2024

You can dismiss your attorney at any time; however, there is no guarantee that the trial will be continued for that reason. So either have another attorney ready for the trial or be prepared to conduct the trial yourself. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

2 Answers | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: Divorced in Florida in 2008. In the division of assets list for a 401k never transferred

In the division of assets, a 401k from a former job of mine (company X) is written up as: ex wife has a Company X retirement account titled in her sole and separate name and that this account shall remain hers free from claims by husband. The decree also states that any retirement accounts not... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 18, 2024

What was the original intention? If it was for you to keep it then keep it. Let her go to court if she wants and argue that there was a mistake. Clearly there is a conflict because it says that titled in your name is yours. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce and Family Law for Florida on
Q: Who calculates the percentage to split a 401k for a QDRO

My husband was divorced 17 years ago and in the divorce decree they were to equally split the marital portion of his 401k through a QDRO. He has contacted his plan administrator and received their QDRO form and it looks self explanatory. My question is does he calculate the percentage to file... View More

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 16, 2024

That calculation should be a part of the order. Normally a QDRO has a specific dollar amount or a percentage and the dates that apply. The financial institution simply does what the order says. They have no discretion. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

2 Answers | Asked in Family Law for Florida on
Q: I have to fill out financial affidavit. I’m currently unemployed but I do hair at home would I list as self employment?

I do hair on and off at home would I list down as self employment but also submit a letter explaining unemployment?

Rand Scott Lieber
Rand Scott Lieber pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on May 16, 2024

Yes. Just be honest. You create issues by hiding things or telling half truths. Legally you are going to be imputed minimum wage. You cannot hurt yourself by being honest. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.

View More Answers

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.