Miami Child Custody Lawyer

Miami Child Custody Attorney

Florida law prioritizes the best interests of the child over defaulting custody to one parent. Both parents have equal standing, aiming to provide the child with quality time with both.

Initial Custody for Unmarried Parents

For unmarried parents, the mother is initially granted full custody. This can change once the father establishes paternity.

Determining Custody: Courts and the Child’s Best Interests

When parents cannot agree on a time-sharing plan, a judge will decide based on the child’s best interests. Florida’s custody decisions focus on the child’s well-being, recognizing that children are significantly affected by divorce. It’s crucial to demonstrate that your proposed arrangement serves the child’s best interests.

Factors Influencing Time-Sharing

Florida considers various factors when determining time-sharing arrangements, including:

• Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs.
• Parents’ physical and mental health.
• Stability of their homes.
• Geographical feasibility.
• Willingness to facilitate contact with the other parent.
• Any history of domestic violence.

Different Custody Arrangements

Child custody can take various forms:

• Sole Custody: One parent has legal and physical custody, making decisions regarding education, religion, health, and discipline, and determining the child’s residence. A Miami custody attorney can help navigate the complexities of sole custody arrangements.
• Shared Parental Responsibility: Florida defaults to shared parental responsibility, where both parents must jointly approve all decisions related to the child. One parent is designated as the primary joint custodian, while the other parent may receive visitation rights. The child primarily resides with the primary joint custodian. Our Miami child custody attorneys provide guidance on ensuring that shared parental responsibility works in the best interest of your child.

Identifying Unfit Parents and Listening to Children’s Preferences

An unfit parent in Florida is defined by criteria such as child abuse, neglect, abandonment, a history of drug abuse, and mental illness. There isn’t a specific age at which a judge will consider a child’s preferences regarding custody. Instead, the judge uses discretion to determine if the child is old enough to understand the choice and possess the necessary intelligence and familiarity with both parents. Consulting with a Miami custody attorney is essential to effectively present evidence in these sensitive matters.

Guardian Ad Litem: Protecting the Child’s Best Interests

In cases marked by toxic parental relationships, suspected abuse or neglect, or mental illness, courts may appoint a guardian ad litem. This impartial guardian investigates and makes recommendations by interviewing family members, teachers, doctors, and the children themselves, all focused on the child’s best interests. If parents cannot agree on significant decisions, a judge will make those choices on behalf of the child. Miami custody lawyers are crucial in ensuring that the guardian ad litem’s recommendations align with the child’s best interests.

Tailored Strategies for Complex Custody Disputes

Every custody case has its unique challenges, especially when both parents disagree on key issues. Our Miami child custody attorneys are experienced in crafting tailored strategies that consider the complexities of each case. Whether negotiating an amicable agreement or advocating in court, our Miami child custody attorneys are committed to securing the best possible outcomes for you and your child.

Navigating the complexities of child custody in Florida requires prioritizing your child’s best interests.

At Altawil Law Group, our experienced child custody attorneys in Miami understand family law nuances and are dedicated to advocating for you and your child. If you need assistance with a child custody matter, reach out to us today for personalized guidance and support. Schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing your child’s future. Your child deserves the best legal representation possible, and we’re here to provide it.