Florida’s child custody and divorce laws are designed to protect the best interests of children. When parents decide to divorce, they must also come up with a parenting plan that outlines how they will share time and responsibilities for their children. This can be a difficult process, but understanding Florida’s legal guidelines can help.
In Florida, both parents have equal rights regarding their children after a divorce unless there is evidence that one parent could harm the child. The court encourages shared parental responsibility, which means both parents continue to make decisions about the child’s upbringing together. However, if this is not in the child’s best interest due to reasons such as domestic violence or substance abuse issues, sole parental responsibility may be granted where only one parent makes decisions concerning the child.
The courts consider several factors when determining what is in the best interest of the child during custody disputes. These include each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment, meet the child’s developmental needs, and encourage a relationship between the child and other parent.
Additionally, Florida law requires divorcing parents with minor children to take an approved four-hour Parent Education and Family Stabilization course before finalizing their divorce. This course Click here covers topics like co-parenting after separation or divorce, financial responsibilities of parenting post-divorce and effects of family separation on kids.
In terms of physical custody or “time-sharing,” as it’s referred to in Florida statutes; it refers to how much time each parent spends with their kids post-divorce. Courts prefer arrangements where both parents spend substantial amounts of time with their children unless there are compelling reasons not to do so like safety concerns.
When it comes down to creating a parenting plan for time-sharing schedules; courts look at practical considerations such as geographical proximity between parents’ homes, school location relative to each household etc., while always keeping paramount focus on what would serve best interests of the kid/s involved.
It’s important for divorcing couples in Florida understand that child support is a separate issue from custody. Child support payments are determined by state guidelines and are based on both parents’ income, the number of children, and the amount of time each parent spends with the children.
Navigating through divorce and child custody issues can be emotionally taxing and complex. Therefore, it’s crucial for parents to seek legal guidance to understand their rights and responsibilities fully. A knowledgeable family law attorney can provide invaluable assistance in these matters, ensuring that all decisions made align with Florida laws and most importantly, serve the best interests of the involved children.
The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm
2600 Douglas Road, Coral Gables, FL 33134
305-384-1540
