Child Custody And Timesharing Support For South Florida Parents
Determining child custody can be one of the toughest parts of a divorce. While the process can come with many mixed feelings, our lawyers assist parents in Miami-Dade and Broward counties to find workable parenting agreements that allow them to love and support their kids, even when they are no longer together.
Our child custody lawyers at De Armas & Arriete, LLC, are here to guide, support and facilitate parenting negotiations that align with your kids’ best interests.
Legal Framework And Terminology Behind Florida Child Custody
In Florida, child custody is referred to as “parental responsibility.” At the same time, “timesharing” pertains to the schedule determining when each parent spends time with the child. Understanding these terms is crucial as they form the basis of your custody arrangement. Parents can share parental responsibilities, or those responsibilities can be designated exclusively to one parent. This depends on what the courts determine is in the kids’ best interests. Our attorneys are here to explain these nuances, helping you grasp the legal context without feeling overwhelmed.
How Florida Courts Determine The Kids’ Best Interests
Florida courts consider various factors in determining the child’s best interests in a divorce. These can include the following:
- Emotional ties between the child and each parent
- The ability of each parent to provide a stable environment
- The commitment of each parent to play a role in their kids’ lives
- Mental and physical health of each parent
Our goal is to help demonstrate how your requests keep the best interests of your child in mind. To learn more about how we can assist you in child custody matters, call us at 786-600-4437.
FAQs Surrounding Florida Child Custody Matters
Some of the questions we hear most often from our clients include:
How does shared custody affect child support payments in Florida?
The time each parent spends with the kids can affect each party’s financial responsibilities. Generally, the more overnights a parent has, the less they may pay for child support, allowing parents to split costs more evenly.
What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?
These terms are no longer used in Florida family law. Nowadays, “parental responsibility” refers to the right to decide your child’s education, health care and other important matters, and is similar to how the term “legal custody” was used in the past. “Timesharing” pertains to where the kids live and when each parent shall spend time with the kids and is similar to how the term “physical custody” was used in the past. Florida typically encourages shared parental responsibility, promoting collaborative decision-making, and equal timesharing. Understanding this distinction is essential in shaping your custody agreement.
How is timesharing determined in Florida?
Timesharing schedules are determined based on the kids’ best interests. Courts evaluate factors like each parent’s emotional and financial stability, the child’s routine, and the proximity of each parent’s home. We can work closely with you to develop a timesharing plan that reflects your child’s needs and family dynamics.
How does Florida law handle relocation requests by a custodial parent?
Florida courts carefully scrutinize relocation requests. A parent wishing to move more than 50 miles away usually must get approval from the other parent or a family law court. The court considers factors such as the reasons for the move, its impact on the child and the potential benefits. Our attorneys assist in presenting or contesting relocation requests while prioritizing your kid’s rights and welfare.
Find A Workable Custody And Parenting Arrangement – Call Today
When dealing with child custody matters, you want to hire legal counsel who understands what’s at stake for you. Anytime you have questions or concerns about your case, you can expect us to respond within one business day via phone or email. We can explain the legal process in relatable terms. That way, you can feel informed and empowered throughout child custody negotiations.
Call our Miami-based office at 786-600-4437 or email us through our online contact form to schedule an initial consultation.