3 Factors Florida Courts Use to Determine Custody in Divorce Hearings
It is common knowledge that courts across the United States only award custody to a parent if they believe it is in the child’s best interest. Florida is no exception, and the courts make child custody decisions after considering several factors. If you are facing a divorce or child custody hearing, a family attorney can explain these factors and represent your interests.
Contacting a Fort Myers custody lawyer is a smart first step when it comes to divorcing your spouse or handling a child custody battle. If you are considering divorce, give The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A. a call.
Mr. Raheb has extensive knowledge regarding divorce and child custody laws in Florida, and he can explain how they relate to your specific case. Call us today at 866-949-0888 to schedule an appointment, and read on for the factors courts consider before determining custody:
- Health and Safety
According to Child Welfare, Florida has a policy in favor of shared parental responsibility, but it is irrelevant if the courts believe the policy will be of detriment to the child. Health and safety are key aspects of their decision, and the courts will need to be certain there is no history of violence, neglect, abandonment or abuse.
In order to evaluate this, a Florida judge can arrange a supervised visitation to each household. A court will also consider issues like the mental and physical health of the parents, which may include an investigation into alcoholism and drug abuse. If you are reading this heading into a child custody case and you know you suffer from alcoholism and drug abuse, you might want to take a look at https://enterhealth.com/outpatient-ocoe/ to start getting treatment as soon as possible in the hope that it doesn’t affect the hearing.
- Emotional Needs
Florida courts believe parents should consider their children’s interests more important than their own, and they will look for this characteristic when making custody decisions. The courts will evaluate each parent’s desire and ability to be involved in their child’s life and meet all developmental needs. It is important to know about your child’s life, and a judge may look for evidence that you know specific details about friends, school life, favorite activities and interests, as well as important service providers such as doctors.
You may also need to demonstrate your ability to provide a sound routine for your child in an environment that is not disruptive. A judge may even look to the child for input if they believe he or she is mature enough to offer insight.
- Communication Skills
Local Florida laws favor parents who can demonstrate their ability to communicate with each other, according to Online Sunshine. The courts will look at your commitment to a parenting plan and a timetable, and they may reduce the amount of time they allocate to one parent if they do not see a clear commitment to communicating with the other spouse.
If you are facing divorce or have questions about Fort Myers child support, give us a call at 866-949-0888. We can help you avoid making key mistakes that might compromise your interests.
