Category Archives: Child Custody
Child Custody Agreements: Dealing with Hazards to the Child’s Health and Well-being
In late March, the Florida Fifth District Court of Appeal released in an instructive opinion in a contested child custody case. The decision is a good reminder that the best interests of the child should always prevail in Florida courts. If you believe that your child’s best interests are not being served by your… Read More »
Parental Alienation In Florida Child Custody Cases
Parental alienation is a process of emotional manipulation by which a child is turned against one of their parents. Parental alienation is emotional abuse, it often has a major negative impact on the well being of the affected child. It also has a deep impact on the victimized parent. Parental alienation most frequently occurs… Read More »
What Are the Rights of an Unmarried Father in Florida?
Legally speaking, there are “putative” and “biological” fathers. A putative father is someone who is presumed to be the father of an illegitimate child (i.e. offspring of unmarried parents). A biological father is one whose genes have been transmitted to the child, as opposed to adopting the minor. Establishing Paternity An unmarried father with… Read More »
Understanding Child Custody in Florida
Child custody can be an emotional subject for soon-to-be divorcing parents. Nevertheless, it is important for you to understand how courts view timesharing in order to be better prepared to handle this matter during your Florida divorce. If you or someone you know is having child custody issues with a former spouse – or… Read More »
Florida Judge Rules Mark Sievers, Suspected of Murder, Will Keep Custody of Kids
A Lee County judge has decided that two pre-teen girls, whose mother was bludgeoned to death in the summer of 2015, should remain in the care of their father despite his recent implication in the tragedy. According to a Naples Daily News report detailing the story, Florida’s Department of Children & Families (DCF) provided… Read More »
Central Florida Military Mom to Regain Custody of Kids
Military veteran Amanda Hurst is one step closer to getting her two kids back, according to a recent MyNews13 report. The former army vet was honorably discharged in 2013 after serving overseas in Iraq and Afghanistan but, unfortunately, found out upon her return to the states that her children had come under the care… Read More »
Is There A Set Age in Which a Child Can Choose Which Parent to Live With?
It is a question commonly asked by divorced or divorcing couples – when will my child be old enough to decide which parent her or she wants to live with? The reason behind this inquiry can vary, as sometimes the noncustodial parent wants the child to live with them or the child asks to… Read More »
The Difficulty in Obtaining Sole Custody in Florida
Under Florida law, child custody is based upon the “best interest of the child” and includes several factors that look into his or her health, education and emotional well-being. Prior or during most divorces the soon-to-be ex-spouses create a parenting plan, which includes time sharing with the child or children. If you or someone… Read More »
Military Mom Fights to Get Back Kids; Stepmother Lost Custody While She Was Deployed
Florida resident Amanda Hurst left her two children, ages 7 and 8, in the custody of her stepmother just prior to going overseas to fight. According to a My News 13 report, in 2009 Hurst joined the Army and was immediately deployed to serve in Iraq and Afghanistan. Just before Hurst’s 2013 honorable discharge… Read More »
Child Time Sharing When You Are a Florida Military Family
A military family who has gone through a divorce faces unique circumstances in addition to confronting the legal system that may vary from state to state. If you are a member of the military – or are a military spouse or ex-spouse – it is important to be aware of these special issues to… Read More »