September 16, 2022
Child custody laws vary from state to state, but there are two general custody arrangements: physical and legal. A parent can have both physical and legal custody of their child, or they can have one or the other.
In today’s article, let’s look at child custody in Florida. Here’s what you need to know:
Child Custody in Florida
Time-Sharing
Florida recently changed the terminology it uses to refer to child custody. The state now uses the term “time-sharing” to refer to what was previously known as child custody.
The change in terminology is part of a larger effort by the state to reduce conflict between parents and promote cooperative parenting. The new time-sharing arrangement is designed to give parents equal time with their children.
Under the old child custody arrangement, one parent would typically be designated as the primary custodial parent, while the other would have visitation rights. This often led to conflict between the parents, as the custodial parent would feel they were not getting enough time with their children.
Parenting Plan
In the state of Florida, child custody is determined by what is in the child’s best interests. There are many factors that a court will consider when making this determination, but the most important factor is always the child’s safety. In some cases, the court may find that it is in the child’s best interests to be placed with one parent, while in other cases, the court may find that it is in the best interests of the child to be placed with both parents.
When the court is deciding about child custody, they will first look at the parenting plan that the parents have created. The parenting plan should be created with the child’s best interests in mind and should be created by both parents. The parenting plan should include a schedule of when the child will be with each parent and a plan for how the parents will make decisions about the child’s upbringing.
Equal Time-Sharing
It’s important to note that the state favors equal time-sharing between parents when possible. This means the child will spend approximately the same time with each parent.
The court will try to make a decision that is in the child’s best interests. They will look at things like the child’s age, relationship with each parent, and each parent’s work schedule to make their decision.
The court will also consider any history of domestic violence or abuse when deciding on child custody. If there is a history of abuse, the court will not award joint custody to the abusive parent.
The Bottom Line
Deciding who will have primary custody of a child or children following a divorce or other legal separation can be difficult, but the main goal is to ensure the child’s well-being. In Florida, new changes have been made to reach this goal better. If you are going through a divorce or child custody proceeding in Florida, it is important to have an experienced attorney on your side.
If you need professional law advice and services, we are here to help you. Dorsey Law JAX is a law firm that specializes in family law, criminal law, and personal injury. We can help you get what you deserve. Feel free to contact us anytime.
