Child Custody Lawyer in Vero Beach, FL Advocating on Behalf of Parents and Children
One of the most challenging decisions a parent may have to make is whom the child will live with and how much parenting time the other parent will be granted. Of course, most parents want what they want for their children. However, some parents get caught up in the battle to have control and put aside what may be best for the child.
At Grall Law Group, our child custody lawyer realizes how overwhelming and stressful this time is for you and your child. Therefore, our main objective is to ensure that both you and your child feel confident about the custody arrangements and parenting time.
Contact our law firm and ask to schedule your family law strategy session to discuss the child custody issues you are facing. We will gladly answer your questions and explain your legal options.
How Does the Court Decide Custody Issues in Florida?
Florida law does not give automatic preference to a mother when deciding any matters related to child custody issues. The family court judge will concentrate their attention on what is determined to be in the child’s best interests. Some of the factors a judge may base their decision on include:
- The ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs
- The physical and mental health of each parent
- The ability of each parent to cultivate a relationship between the child and the other parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide a safe home for the child
- Issues related to domestic violence, substance abuse, or moral fitness
The court will closely examine each of these factors and determine the benefits of which parent should maintain primary custody of the child.
What is the Typical Child Custody Arrangement in Florida?
Every case in family court is unique, and as such, there is no “standard” Parenting Plan that exists, however when equal time sharing is appropriate, many people find that a plan known as a “5-2” plan works best. Under this plan, parents start with the concept of alternating weekends, Friday night through Monday morning. One parent will then have every Monday and Tuesday overnight, and the other parent would have every Wednesday and Thursday overnight. Since the only rotation is the weekend schedule, this is a plan that is easy for children to follow and it allows parents to establish a consistent routine during the school week.
What is the Difference Between the Custodial Parent and the Non-Custodial Parent?
The custodial parent is the individual who has more parenting time with the child. The child will maintain a primary residence with the custodial parent, also known as the primary parent. The non-custodial parent is the individual who usually has weekends and one night per week with the child. If an issue arises that the two parents cannot solve between them, in most cases, the custodial parent has the final say. However, the custodial parent is legally obligated to keep the non-custodial parent informed regarding the child’s whereabouts and overall well-being.
What Kind of Results Can I Expect From Your Law Firm?
Our law firm is passionately committed to assisting you in reaching a custody arrangement that will be in the child’s best interest as well as your own. We realize that having to deal with child custody issues can almost seem to be unbearable at times. Nevertheless, our child custody lawyer can serve as your legal advocate in family court and help you navigate the various challenges that often arise.
We can also assist you in developing a parenting schedule that will suit both your and the other parent’s needs. It is essential to keep in mind that the court does not look favorably at parents arguing with one another over any issues relating to parenting and custody issues.
If you are facing child custody issues, you need a family law lawyer who understands how important it is for you to maintain contact and a healthy relationship with your child. Grall Law Group is committed to assisting families to reach peaceful resolutions so they may begin the next chapter in their lives. Contact our law office by calling 772-569-0000 and ask to schedule a consultation to discuss the facts of your case and potential legal options.