This is the first post in a series of articles which will address the question of “what rights does a married father have in Melbourne, Florida?” I consider it important to write on this topic due to the fact that dads are often unsure as to what rights they will have if they choose to file for divorce. This confusion can lead to a father staying in a bad marriage that he would otherwise leave. I am writing this series, therefore, in order to provide information which people may find useful when analyzing their current situation. I am also writing these articles in order to provide information which will assist with the selection of a family law attorney. If you are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing multiple topics over my coming articles. Topics which I will be addressing include:
- A married fathers’ rights regarding custody and visitation
- The need for a temporary order after filing for divorce
- How child custody is handled in a divorce proceeding
- The need to co-parent with the mother
There are multiple reasons why I have chosen to address these particular issues. First, Florida law treats married fathers differently from unmarried fathers with no child custody order. The former will be seen as having equal rights and responsibilities in regard to the child while the latter will not have an immediate right to visitation. Understanding what rights one has, at the outset of a case, can be important to the decision as to whether one wishes to move forward. Second, it is important that a dad obtain a temporary custody order as soon as possible after filing for divorce. This can help to reduce conflict between the parents. Third, dads must be prepared for the fact that child custody proceedings are handled as part of a divorce. Finally, the need to co-parent extends beyond the completion of the case.
If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a Melbourne divorce lawyer. I practice solely in the area of family law and this includes child custody. I understand the urgency of such situations and we give all cases the attention they deserve. Contact us online or by telephone today for an appointment. 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.