Resolving Child Custody And Visitation Disputes
How Are Custody Decisions Made?
Parents may negotiate a custody and visitation agreement on their own, which is subject to court approval. If parents are unable to reach an agreement, a judge will decide the custody terms. The court may use numerous factors to reach a determination, including:
- The age of the child
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- How disruptive a change may be to the child’s current routine
- The child’s wishes, depending on the child’s age and level of maturity
The most significant factor the court will consider is what is going to be in the best interests of the child. It is essential to keep in mind that what you consider to be your child’s best interests and what the court finds to be the child’s best interests may not always be the same. For example, whenever possible, the court will attempt to reach a decision that enables the child to have some form of contact with both parents.
Attorney Keough can help you set realistic goals and expectations for custody while passionately advocating for the outcome you desire. It is always possible to modify a custody agreement if things change in the future.
Understanding Different Types Of Custody Arrangements
Florida recognizes several types of custody arrangements designed to serve children’s best interests while addressing various family circumstances:
- Sole custody: One parent receives primary physical and legal responsibility, with the other parent typically receiving scheduled visitation time
- Joint custody: Both parents share decision-making responsibilities and parenting time, though the child may primarily reside with one parent
- Temporary custody: Provides interim arrangements during divorce proceedings or other family transitions while permanent arrangements are determined
A qualified child custody lawyer can help you understand which arrangement best suits your family’s unique circumstances while protecting your parental rights.
Protecting Visitation Rights For All Family Members
Visitation rights extend beyond the basic custody arrangement and encompass various family relationships that benefit children’s emotional well-being and development.
- Noncustodial parents retain important visitation rights even when they do not have primary physical custody of their children. These rights typically include scheduled overnight visits, holiday time, vacation periods, and regular contact through phone calls or video chats. Courts recognize that maintaining strong relationships with both parents serves children’s best interests.
- Grandparents visitation rights may be granted when these relationships benefit the child’s welfare. Florida law allows grandparents to petition for visitation under specific circumstances, such as when parents divorce, when one parent dies or when the child was born outside of marriage.
A visitation rights lawyer can help protect these important family relationships and advocate for arrangements that support your child’s emotional needs while respecting all parties’ rights.
Modification And Enforcement Of Custody Orders
Modifications and enforcement represent crucial aspects of ongoing custody arrangements as families’ circumstances change over time.
Court order modifications of child custody agreements may become necessary when significant changes occur in either parent’s life, such as relocation, job changes, remarriage or changes in the child’s needs as they grow older. Courts require substantial evidence that modifications serve the child’s best interests. Examples of strong evidence include school records, medical reports, witness testimony or documented incidents reflecting parenting concerns or improvements.
A child custody attorney can guide you through both modification and enforcement processes, helping you document necessary changes and protect your parental rights while prioritizing your child’s well-being throughout these legal proceedings.
Contact Attorney Keough For Experienced Family Law Representation
Mr. Keough handles child custody matters as part of divorce proceedings and for unmarried parents. To find out how he can help you, call the Law Office of Timothy S. Keough, P.A., at 352-508-1446. You may also complete the online contact form. From his office in Tavares, Mr. Keough represents clients throughout Lake County, Sumter County and surrounding areas.