This article is being written to conclude and recap a series which was meant to provide a basic understanding of child custody laws in Melbourne and other Florida areas. I considered it important to write this article as many parents operate under a misunderstanding as to what rights they do, and do not, have. This can lead to unnecessary conflict between the parents. I wrote my recent articles, therefore, with the goal of providing information which will help people to better understand their situation. It has also been my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of a family law attorney. If you or a loved one are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I discussed several topics over my recent articles. Issues which I analyzed included:
- How Florida defines child custody
- How Florida determines child custody
- When Melbourne parents may change custody
- Parental rights after a custody order is issued
There are several reasons why I chose to address these particular topics. First, Florida is like most states in that it divides custody (also known as “time share”) into legal and physical components. A parent’s legal rights deal with things such as the ability to consent to medical care, the ability to enroll the child into school, etc. Physical custody, by contrast, deals with whom the child will spend their time. Second, when making a custody determination, the Court’s sole concern will be for the best interests of the child. What a parent wants will not be at issue for the Court. Third, a parent may not change custody or time share simply because they want to. In order to change custody, one must show that circumstances have changed since the last custodial order and that the proposed change is in the best interests of the child. Finally, understanding how to proceed after an order has been entered can help to avoid future conflict.
An important point that I stressed throughout this series is that one should contact a family law attorney as soon as possible if they are involved in a child custody dispute. It is important to contact counsel immediately as arguing with your ex, or engaging in self-help, can have the effect of hurting one’s case. I am a Melbourne child custody lawyer who practices exclusively in the handling of domestic relations law. I understand the serious nature of such matters and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact us online or by telephone to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to speaking with you.
We also service clients in 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.