This is the first post in a series of articles which will address the subject of filing for a guardianship in Melbourne, Florida. I feel it is necessary to write on this topic due to the fact that, for obvious reasons, many individuals do not know what to do when they feel a child is in danger. It is important to understand how to navigate the legal process during such situations as taking matters into your own hands will likely make things worse. The goal of my coming articles is to provide information which will assist individuals with knowing how to work within the system. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of an attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Melbourne guardianship lawyer.
I will be addressing a number of topics over my coming articles. Issues I will look at include:
- Who may, and who may not, file for guardianship of a Florida child
- Situations under which the Court may grant a guardianship
- The process of obtaining a guardianship
- What to expect after a guardianship is granted
There are multiple reasons why I am choosing to address these topics. First, the Courts will not allow just anyone to file for guardianship over a child. This right is reserved for certain relatives, stepparents, or “fictive kin.” If one does not fall into these categories, and believes that a child is in danger, then they should contact law enforcement or DCF. Second, the Court will not grant a non-parent temporary custody on trivial grounds. It must be shown that the child’s best interests are truly at risk. Third, understanding what to expect at the proceedings will help to ensure that things go more smoothly. Finally, it is important to understand that custody given to a non-parent will not be permanent in nature. It will be the goal of the Court, when possible, to reunite the child or children with their parents.
Guardianships and non-parental custody are issues which Florida Courts take very seriously. If you are in need of assistance then it is strongly suggested that you speak with an attorney. Our Melbourne guardianship lawyers understand that you may be facing a serious situation and we will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an initial consultation. We are looking forward to being of assistance. We also serve the Brevard County cities of Titusville, Cocoa, Palm Bay, Grant, Valkaria, and Rockledge, as well as in the Indian River County areas of Fellsmere, Sebastian, Vero Beach, Indian River Shores, and Orchid.