Legal Beagle
Legal Beagle features Attorney Kristina Lyke sharing expert legal insights and practical advice on various legal matters. The show aims to make legal concepts accessible and understandable for viewers while providing valuable information for those navigating legal challenges.
Episodes

Aug 4, 2026
Aug 4, 2026
17 min
Episode Summary: In this episode of Legal Beagle, host Sean O'Connor is joined by Kristina Lyke, owner of Lyke Law PLLC, to discuss the complexities surrounding the revocation of paternity in Michigan. They explore how legal fatherhood can be challenged even after it has been established, impacting parental rights, custody, and child support. Kristina explains the legal process involved, including the importance of the affidavit of parentage and the three-year time limit for revoking paternity. She also delves into scenarios where DNA tests reveal a different biological father and the implications for child support and custody. The episode provides valuable insights into the legal nuances and the importance of consulting an experienced attorney to navigate these sensitive issues effectively.
Key Timestamps:00:01 – Introduction00:38 – What is Revocation of Paternity?01:48 – Procedures for Revoking Paternity02:07 – Time Limits for Revocation03:09 – Legal vs. Biological Fatherhood04:28 – Impact on Child Support05:20 – Who Can Revoke Paternity?05:50 – Custody and Parenting Time After Revocation06:44 – Established Custodial Environment07:46 – Importance of Consulting an Attorney08:02 – Historical Context: Serifin Hearings09:56 – Motion to Intervene in Divorce Proceedings11:02 – Challenges with Knowledge of Marriage12:04 – Legal Implications of False Affidavits13:31 – Risks of Self-Representation in Paternity Cases14:21 – The Role of AI in Legal Practice
About the Show: Legal Beagle is a podcast dedicated to unraveling the complexities of family law in Michigan. Hosted by Sean O'Connor, the show features in-depth discussions with legal professionals like Kristina Lyke, providing listeners with valuable insights into topics such as paternity, custody, and child support. The podcast aims to educate and empower listeners by breaking down legal jargon and offering practical advice. Whether you're navigating a family law issue or simply interested in understanding the legal landscape, Legal Beagle is your go-to resource for clear and concise information.

Jun 9, 2026
Jun 9, 2026
27 min
Episode Summary:In this episode of Legal Beagle, the host, owner of Lyke Law PLLC, is joined by assistant Judy Johnson to explore various scenarios in family law. They discuss the intricacies of divorce and legal separation, emphasizing the benefits of maintaining health insurance through a legal separation. The conversation shifts to spousal support, addressing misconceptions about alimony and the factors influencing support payments. The hosts also tackle complex custody issues, highlighting the importance of the best interest factors and the established custodial environment. They provide guidance on handling domestic violence situations, including the use of personal protection orders and the importance of counseling. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone navigating the challenges of family law, ensuring listeners are better equipped to make informed decisions.
Key Timestamps:00:01 – Introduction00:34 – Understanding Divorce and Health Insurance01:16 – Legal Separation vs. Divorce02:21 – Religious Reasons for Legal Separation03:15 – High Income and Spousal Support04:39 – Evaluating Spousal Support Factors06:28 – Duration of Spousal Support09:03 – Modifiable vs. Non-Modifiable Support10:03 – Custody and Extramarital Affairs12:00 – Best Interest Factors in Custody14:10 – Filing for Divorce in Different Counties16:00 – Disclosure of Assets and Legal Implications18:11 – Protecting Children in Domestic Violence Cases
About the Show:Legal Beagle is a podcast dedicated to providing clear and practical insights into the world of family law. Designed for individuals navigating legal challenges, the show covers topics such as divorce, custody, and support with a focus on ethics and clarity. Each episode features discussions that break down complex legal concepts into understandable terms, empowering listeners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Whether you're dealing with a personal legal matter or simply interested in learning more about family law, Legal Beagle offers valuable guidance and expert perspectives.

May 26, 2026
May 26, 2026
26 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Legal Beagle, host Kristina welcomes Ramon Baca, the director of Veterans Services in Livingston County. Ramon provides a comprehensive overview of the services available to veterans, including the process for obtaining disability benefits and the criteria for different disability ratings. He explains the importance of a nexus letter and how compensation and pension exams work. Ramon also discusses the challenges veterans face in accessing benefits and the role of outreach events in connecting them to available resources. The episode delves into the specifics of presumptive conditions related to Agent Orange and the benefits available to surviving spouses and children. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intricacies of veteran services and how to navigate them effectively.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:09 – Meet Ramon Baca, Veterans Services Director
00:32 – Overview of Veterans Services Operations
01:54 – Understanding Service-Connected Disability
02:59 – Disability Rating and Compensation Explained
03:39 – Example: Hearing Loss and Disability Claims
04:43 – Encouraging Veterans to Reconnect with Benefits
05:41 – Timeline for Receiving Disability Benefits
06:48 – Multiple Disabilities and Contentions
07:56 – Agent Orange and Presumptive Conditions
09:25 – Healthcare Eligibility Based on Disability Rating
11:44 – Funeral Assistance for Veterans' Families
14:10 – Eligibility for Federal and County Services
15:13 – Survivor Benefits and Eligibility Criteria
20:47 – Accessing Transportation Services for Veterans
About the Show:
Legal Beagle is a podcast dedicated to providing valuable legal insights and resources to veterans, their families, and the broader community. Hosted by experienced legal professionals, the show covers a wide range of topics, from navigating veteran benefits to understanding complex legal processes. With a focus on clarity and accessibility, Legal Beagle aims to empower listeners with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions and access the support they deserve. Whether you're a veteran, a family member, or someone interested in legal issues, this podcast offers practical advice and expert perspectives.

May 12, 2026
May 12, 2026
6 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of Legal Beagle, the hosts dive into the critical role of circuit court judges in Michigan. Joined by Aaron, a legal assistant from Lyke Law and a student at MSU, they explore what makes a good judge and the qualifications necessary for the position. The discussion highlights the importance of judges in handling serious legal matters, such as criminal justice, family law, and business disputes. They emphasize the need for judges to possess deep legal expertise and sound judgment to ensure justice and community safety. The episode also covers the responsibilities of judges in reviewing appeals and correcting errors from lower courts, as well as the qualifications required to serve as a circuit court judge in Michigan. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the judicial system and the importance of informed voting in judicial elections.
Key Timestamps:
00:01 – Introduction
00:41 – Importance of a Good Judge in Circuit Court
01:08 – Impact of Judges on Serious Legal Matters
01:47 – Role in Appeals and Error Correction
02:38 – Term Length and Influence of Judges
03:23 – Interpretation and Application of Laws
04:14 – Importance of Legal and Procedural Knowledge
04:46 – Qualifications for Circuit Court Judges
05:32 – Importance of Researching Judicial Candidates
06:04 – Conclusion on Judicial Elections
About the Show:
Legal Beagle is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intricacies of the legal system, making it accessible and understandable for all listeners. Whether you're a law student, a practicing attorney, or simply interested in the legal world, this show offers valuable insights into various legal topics. Each episode features discussions with legal professionals who share their knowledge and experiences, providing listeners with practical information and a deeper understanding of the law. The series aims to educate and empower its audience by demystifying complex legal concepts and highlighting the importance of informed participation in the justice system.

Mar 31, 2026
Mar 31, 2026
10 min
Episode Summary:
Andrea Anderson shares her harrowing journey through a high-stress, conflicted divorce with a violent, drug-abusing ex-husband. From filing personal protection orders to enduring a lengthy legal battle, Andrea's story offers valuable insights for anyone facing a similar situation.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Facing a Narcissistic, Abusive Marriage
04:15 – Filing Personal Protection Orders
06:20 – Navigating Divorce Proceedings
09:45 – Dealing with Legal Delays and Multiple Attorneys
13:10 – Repeated Violations of Personal Protection Order
15:45 – Post-Divorce Legal Battles and Complications
18:30 – Fighting a Motion to Set Aside the Divorce
21:05 – Winning Legal Battles and Attorney Fee Awards
24:00 – Reflecting on the Worth of the Divorce Journey
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* is a podcast dedicated to providing crucial insights and guidance on navigating legal challenges, featuring real-life stories and expert advice on family law, divorce, and more.

Mar 24, 2026
Mar 24, 2026
7 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Legal Beagle* Kelly Meade and Mike Cunningham from Veterans Treatment Assistant Core (VTAC) discuss the unique services their non-profit organization provides to judicially involved veterans. From emergency financial assistance to therapy dogs, VTAC's mission stands out for its targeted support. Tune in to learn how VTAC is making a difference in the lives of veterans.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:10 – Services provided by VTAC
03:25 – What sets VTAC apart
05:45 – Supporting Veterans Treatment Court
07:30 – VTAC's reach in Michigan
09:15 – Kelly's experience as a disabled veteran
11:20 – Training service dogs for therapy
13:40 – Honors received by VTAC's therapy dogs
16:05 – How to support VTAC through volunteering or donation
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* delves into legal matters affecting various communities, shedding light on important topics and initiatives. Join us as we explore the legal landscape and provide valuable insights for our listeners.

Jan 20, 2026
Jan 20, 2026
14 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Legal Beagle*, attorney Kristina Lyke sheds light on crucial aspects of parenting time arrangements during the holiday season. From deciphering court orders to handling transportation and communication issues, Kristina offers valuable insights to ensure a smooth holiday period for families dealing with parenting time challenges.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:45 – Understanding Holiday Parenting Time Orders
02:10 – Importance of Maintaining a Clear Holiday Calendar
03:45 – Addressing Transportation Concerns
05:20 – Emphasizing Written Agreements for Parenting Time Swaps
07:15 – Prioritizing Holiday Time Over Regular Parenting Time
09:30 – Clarifying School Recess vs. Holiday Breaks for Parenting Time
11:40 – Managing Grandparent Visitation Rights During Holidays
13:25 – Final Advice for Parents During the Holiday Season
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* provides expert legal guidance on a range of family law and criminal defense matters. With a focus on protecting clients' rights and fostering understanding in legal complexities, the show offers practical insights and solutions for legal challenges.

Jan 6, 2026
Jan 6, 2026
12 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Legal Beagle*, Kristina Lyke sheds light on court-ordered programs, such as therapy, parenting classes, and anger management, that individuals may be mandated to attend by the court. She discusses the legalities behind these orders, the implications of non-compliance, and strategies for challenging or modifying requirements. Gain valuable insights into navigating court-ordered programs effectively.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Can courts legally mandate therapy, parenting classes, or anger management?
03:45 – Court-ordered programs in criminal, family, and civil law
06:12 – Consequences of non-compliance with court orders
08:40 – Importance of professional evaluations in court decisions
10:15 – Impact on custody and parenting time rights
12:25 – Court-ordered substance testing and its implications
14:50 – Challenging requirements and proposing alternatives
17:30 – Judges' perspectives on compliance with court orders
19:45 – Advice for individuals feeling controlled by court-ordered programs
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* provides expert insights into legal matters, offering guidance on navigating the complexities of the legal system. From criminal defense to family law, Kristina Lyke brings clarity and understanding to legal issues, empowering individuals to protect their rights and make informed decisions.

Dec 23, 2025
Dec 23, 2025
13 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Legal Beagle*, Kristina Lyke delves into the nuances of false accusations and the legal consequences of lying to authorities. From distinguishing between misdemeanors and felonies to exploring the impact of perjury in family court, Kristina provides valuable insights on the importance of truthfulness in legal proceedings.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
00:45 – Definition of filing a false report in Michigan
02:15 – Distinction between misdemeanor and felony lies
04:30 – Importance of truthfulness in legal encounters
06:10 – Differentiating lies, mistakes, and misunderstandings
08:20 – Strategies for proving innocence in false accusation cases
10:00 – Penalties for filing false police reports
12:30 – Civil consequences and defamation lawsuits
14:45 – Maintaining professionalism while addressing lies in court
17:00 – Advice for those facing unfair targeting
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* is a podcast hosted by Kristina Lyke, offering expert insights into legal matters ranging from criminal defense to family law. Join us to stay informed, empowered, and protected in the complex world of law.

Dec 9, 2025
Dec 9, 2025
18 min
Episode Summary:
In this episode of *Legal Beagle*, attorney Kristina Lyke delves into the complexities of co-parenting when one parent violates court orders. From denying scheduled holidays to withholding medical information or alienating parenting time, Kristina sheds light on common violations and offers practical advice on documenting such infractions for legal recourse.
Key Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction
01:30 – Types of co-parenting violations
03:45 – Documenting violations effectively
06:15 – Distinguishing between technical violations and willful non-compliance
08:20 – Legal repercussions for repeated violations
09:45 – Addressing false excuses to keep the child away
11:30 – Involving law enforcement and court enforcement actions
13:45 – Timelines for filing enforcement motions
15:10 – Advice for exhausted parents navigating court battles
About the Show:
*Legal Beagle* provides expert insights into legal matters, offering guidance on navigating complex legal challenges. Led by seasoned attorney Kristina Lyke, the show aims to empower individuals facing legal dilemmas with knowledge and strategies to protect their rights and interests.








