When a couple is getting divorced, one of the most difficult issues they will need to work through is custody and visitation arrangements for their children. A good Child Custody attorney in Pensacola, FL will help you navigate the legal process and make sure that your interests, as well as those of your children, are protected.
In Florida and other states, it is now common practice for courts to award parents joint physical and legal custody. This means that both parents will share decision-making and spend roughly equal time with the children. It is also possible for parents to agree to a custody arrangement on their own and submit it to the court. This arrangement is called a time-sharing agreement or parenting plan and must be approved by the judge in order to be enforceable.
The court looks at many different factors in deciding a custody case. The most important factor is the best interest of the children. This is determined by the judge taking into account things like the current living situation of the children, the parents’ health, the child’s relationship with each parent and whether either or both parents have a history of domestic violence or substance abuse. The child’s educational development, school location and future post-resolution living arrangements are also taken into consideration. The financial status of the parents is also examined and can be a big consideration when determining a parenting plan and child support.
While it is rare for a father to get full custody in Florida, this is not impossible. To get sole custody, the father must show that shared parental responsibility with the mother is detrimental to the children. This can be done by showing that the mother is likely to undermine a healthy bond between father and child or that she is unlikely to adhere to the court’s time-sharing schedule.
It is also important to remember that even if the child custody court awards you primary physical custody, it may still be possible for your ex-spouse to request a modification to the original custody agreement. This is because Florida law allows for modifications to be made if the circumstances have changed substantially. If you have had a significant change in circumstances, such as your former spouse developing a drug addiction or being exposed to domestic violence, you should consider speaking with a Pensacola Family Law attorney about filing for a custody modification.
Davis and Associates, Attorneys at Law in Florida has the experience, expertise and dedication to make sure that your children’s best interests are represented in a custody dispute. Contact us today to speak with a qualified Child Custody lawyer. We can assist you in all types of Family Law matters. All of our attorneys are independently verified, meet stringent client service requirements, have impeccable disciplinary histories and are certified by the State Bar of Florida. We are a highly professional, efficient and effective law firm. We look forward to working with you and your family.