Working towards a fair child custody arrangement can be one of the most complex steps in the process of getting a divorce in Florida. You may believe you should have sole custody, or your spouse may be fighting for sole custody, despite your belief that shared custody is a better option for everyone involved.
Regardless, it’s wise to enlist the help of a legal expert who can address these matters on your behalf. A Fort Lauderdale sole custody attorney at The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A. can simplify what may otherwise seem to be an overwhelming aspect of your divorce.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOLE CUSTODY IN FLORIDA
Since 2011, Florida statutes and courts no longer use the term “sole custody.” This doesn’t mean that parents in Florida can’t be awarded a form of custody that would essentially qualify as sole custody in another state.
A parent in Florida may sometimes be awarded sole parental responsibility. When this happens, they’re the parent who exclusively has the right to make important decisions about a child’s life and upbringing. This may involve making decisions about such matters as a child’s education, health, religion, and where they live. A parent with sole parental responsibility might even be
able to make decisions regarding whether, when, and how the other parent sees their children.
FORT LAUDERDALE SOLE CUSTODY CASES: UNDERSTANDING THE STANCE OF THE COURT
It’s important to understand that courts rarely grant sole parental responsibility in Florida. The goal of the court is to ensure a custody arrangement serves the best interests of a child and doesn’t deprive either parent of their rights.
It’s generally believed that it’s advantageous to a child for both parents to be involved in their life. However, there are circumstances when a sole parental responsibility arrangement may be ideal. Reasons for such an arrangement may include a parent:
- Being abusive
- Being addicted to drugs
- Being a criminal or otherwise living a lifestyle that can endanger a child
- Being unreliable and unable to consistently serve the needs of their child
That’s not necessarily an exhaustive list. If you have questions about additional scenarios that might justify a sole parent responsibility arrangement, discuss the matter in greater detail with a Fort Lauderdale sole custody lawyer.
HOW A FORT LAUDERDALE SOLE CUSTODY ATTORNEY CAN ASSIST YOU
Because courts are not inclined to grant sole parental responsibility in Florida, if you believe you deserve sole responsibility, you’ll need to present a strong case. A Fort Lauderdale sole custody attorney can help you do so by gathering documentation and evidence showing that your soon- to-be ex is unfit to play an active role in the life of your child.
On the other hand, perhaps your child’s other parent is asking for sole parental responsibility. Although you may know such an arrangement isn’t warranted, you might nevertheless worry that a court will side with them.
Guard against this by hiring a lawyer. Although no attorney can promise a specific outcome, a dedicated Fort Lauderdale sole custody lawyer can provide the advocacy you deserve in these circumstances.
CONTACT A FORT LAUDERDALE SOLE CUSTODY ATTORNEY TODAY
At The Law Office of Gustavo E. Frances, P.A., we understand that fighting for custody of your children when getting a divorce can be an intimidating experience. Our goal is to help you navigate it with confidence. To learn more about what we can do for you, contact us online or call us at 954-533-2756.
Contact Me For A Flat-Fee Uncontested Divorce
For legal representation in any dissolution of marriage matter, please reach out to me online or call me toll free at 954-533-2756.
