This is the first post in a series of articles which will address common questions about child custody in Melbourne and other Florida areas. I feel it is important to address this topic as individuals are often confused about what rights they do and do not have. Such misunderstandings can often lead to unnecessary conflict between parents. The goal of my coming articles is to provide information which will help people to better understand their situation. It is also my goal to provide information which will assist with the selection of an attorney. If you or a family member are in need of assistance then contact my office today to speak with a lawyer.
I will be addressing several topics over my coming articles. Topics which I will be analyzing include:
- Florida’s definitions of child custody
- How child custody is determined in Florida
- When parents may change child custody
- The rights of a parent once an order has been issued
I have chosen to address these topics for multiple reasons. First, like other states, Florida recognizes the concepts of “legal” and “physical” custody. Understanding these concepts is important to have reasonable expectations in any legal dispute. Second, the Court’s sole concern in any case will be to protect the best interest of the child. I will discuss how the Court determines what is in the best interest of a youth. Third, parents may only change custody when changed circumstances require a change to protect the youth’s best interests. Finally, parents must understand what rights they have under an agreement in order to avoid unnecessary disputes.
An important point I will be stressing in each of these articles is the need to contact an attorney if you are involved in any type of family law disagreement. Many parents make the mistake of squabbling with the other side or engaging in “self-help.” These acts can hurt one’s case. By having qualified counsel, you help to ensure that your case is handled correctly. I am a Melbourne child custody lawyer who practices solely in the area of domestic relations law. I understand that this is an important time in your life and my office will give your case the attention it deserves. Contact my office online or by telephone today for an initial appointment.
We also serve clients in 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.