Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Superbowl Sunday = Domestic Violence
What comes to mind when you think of Superbowl Sunday? If you’re like many Americans, you may have visions of crowded bars and living rooms, collective cheers as the favored team advances, and group grumbling when things don’t go so well. But all in all, win or lose, it’s a good time for all…. Read More »

Pregnancy And Domestic Violence
Maybe things were rough in your marriage, but there were bright spots. Sometimes things seemed perfect, and your spouse was incredibly loving, complimentary, and kind. The violent episodes, though frightening and painful, were rare. Maybe you thought that pregnancy would bring you closer together, would make your spouse more careful about controlling that nasty… Read More »

Can I File Bankruptcy For My Student Loans?
If you’ve been listening to the political chatter relating to student loan forgiveness, you may be pinning your hopes on the possibility that the Biden administration will be forgiving anywhere from $10,000 to $50,000 in student loans. While there’s no guarantee that these amounts, or any amount of student loan debt will actually be… Read More »

Technology & Domestic Violence
Domestic violence occurs in all kinds of families, and in all kinds of ways. The abuse may be primarily verbal and emotional, or may be physical. For some, the abuse consists of sexual or reproductive coercion or abuse. Others may suffer financial abuse. For many, the abuse spans multiple aspects of life. Modern relationships… Read More »

Florida Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Questions Answered
If your financial situation is out of control and you spend more time trying to evade bill collectors than actually enjoying your life, you may have considered filing for bankruptcy. But you really don’t know much about what it involves and what the benefit/cost ratio looks like. While the specifics of your situation can… Read More »

Trial By Judge Or By Jury: Which Is Best For You?
If you are headed to trial on criminal charges, you have some big decisions ahead, not the least of which is whether you should opt for a judge or a jury. What factors should you consider as you make this hefty decision? There are certainly pros and cons to either choice. Choosing to go… Read More »

Planning For Safety During The Holidays: A Guide For Victims Of Domestic Violence
If you are a victim of domestic violence, the holidays may be more stressful than any other time of year. Additional stresses brought on by heavy traffic, financial woes, and additional time with extended family may create heightened anxiety for your abuser. And with additional traveling and bustle, a victim’s safety planning may face… Read More »

Getting Through A Holiday Bankruptcy
They call it the season of giving. Nevertheless, for those who are considering filing for bankruptcy, or who’ve recently filed for bankruptcy, it can be more difficult than ever to make ends meet. Expectations relating to those holiday meals, not to mention gift giving, travel, and décor can put an incredible strain on families. … Read More »

Racial Disparity In Bankruptcy Filings/Outcomes
Systemic racism has been a focus of discussion among sociologists and historians for some time. Whether related to housing, education, or job opportunities, it seems clear there have been extensive roadblocks to Black Americans that have interfered with upward mobility for generations. Now studies can add racial disparity in relation to bankruptcy to the… Read More »

Defense Of Criminal Mischief In Florida
Criminal mischief: it sounds like nothing too serious—maybe a little mischievous disruption—nothing more than a bit of silliness. But the fact of the matter is, a number of activities could land you with a charge of criminal mischief, and the charge is anything but a joke. What Constitutes Criminal Mischief? A broad range of… Read More »