Are you going through a divorce in Florida or about to start the process? Or maybe you’ve already gone through a divorce and are attempting to make changes through post-decree modifications? Divorce can be emotionally exhausting and confusing because of all the uncertainty that comes with so many lifestyle adjustments. These sometimes jarring changes mean that clarity is essential for reducing stress and confidently facing your divorce. When making decisions regarding divorce agreements, you have to think about what’s best for the present and the future. The Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb can help you understand the possible outcomes of your divorce and assist you in achieving the outcome that’s best for you and your children.
Of all the aspects of divorce, probably nothing deals with as much emotional investment as child visitation and custody. Child visitation terms are life-altering in that they determine the kind of relationship you’ll be able to have with your children, how often you will see them, and how involved you will be in their lives.
What Do Child Visitation Terms Cover?
Child visitation arrangements outline each parent’s visitation rights, duties, and responsibilities to their child. According to LegalMatch, a typical child visitation agreement may include:
- The child’s main residence
- A detailed visitation schedule
- Activities
- Geographic restrictions
- Modification instructions
What are the Judges Looking for in Child Custody Cases?
DivorceNet explains that judges have a universal range of qualifications that they consider when awarding child visitation agreements. Like the rest of the country, Florida judges utilize the “best interests of the child” standard when making decisions. According to the courts, a child’s best interest depends on the key factors below:
- Ages of the children
- Each parent’s living situation
- Each parent’s willingness to support the other parent’s relationship with the children
- Each parent’s relationship with the children before the divorce
- Preferences of the children
- Stability of each parent
- Sexual orientation of each parent (in some cases)
- History or evidence of abuse or neglect both parents
Judges will consider the above aspects when legalizing an arrangement they believe is best for the child(ren). Though it might seem like an obvious fact to you, judges also look for clear evidence that documents and proves your desire to be involved in your children’s lives. VeryWellFamily points out that simply proving that you want to be involved in your children’s lives often isn’t always enough. You might need to convince the court that your involvement directly benefits your children. A lot hangs on your argument, so professionals recommend getting backed by an experienced family lawyer!
How Can You Prepare for Success?
If you want to significantly increase your chances of getting your desired child visitation rulings, it’s advisable to work with a family attorney who is experienced in the nuances and expectations of divorce cases in Naples, FL, and surrounding areas. Michael M. Raheb can give you the professional support and assistance that you need, clearly explaining your options, fighting for your parental rights, and ensuring that the wellbeing of your children is protected and promoted.
Remember that judges want to do what’s best for your children. According to LegalMatch, judges generally prefer for both parents to be involved in children’s lives if the conditions are favorable. But you might need legal assistance explaining your desire and ability to parent successfully. Why? Because facts and stories can get distorted in divorces, your ex might have an opposing child custody agenda, and because judges don’t know you personally or understand your whole perspective.
In addition to getting experienced legal support, you’ll need to prepare a proposed parenting plan – which is required for all divorces involving children.
What is a Proposed Parenting Plan?
A proposed parenting plan should include desired days and times for shared custody, as well as the child support terms that each parent believes are fair. Judges are looking for a well-documented and child-focused proposed parenting plan. Part of our family law services include assisting you as you draft, modify, and present your proposed parenting plan to a judge.
Protect Your Rights as a Parent!
As a loving parent, you have the right to spend time with your children and be involved in their lives. You also have a “best interest of the child standard,” and you want what’s best for your family! You owe it to yourself to do your research and hire a family lawyer who truly cares about you and your children. We’re here to protect your rights and help you achieve a child custody situation that keeps you close to your family! Call us at 239-226-0888 or contact us online.
The Law Offices of
Michael M. Raheb, P.A.
2423 First Street,
Fort Myers FL 33901
Office: 239-226-0888
Fax Number: 866-949-0888
