Seminole Child Custody & Support Attorney
Helping Parents Protect What Matters Most
When parents separate or divorce, or if they share children outside of a committed relationship, the well-being of their children is often the top concern—and rightfully so. Issues of child custody and child support can be some of the most emotionally charged and sensitive aspects of any family law case. At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, our Seminole child custody & support attorney helps parents navigate these important matters with compassion, clarity, and an unwavering focus on what’s best for their children.
Whether you’re seeking to establish a parenting plan, resolve a custody dispute, or ensure proper financial support, we’re here to protect your rights and guide you through every step of the process.
Florida’s Approach to Child Custody and Time-Sharing
Florida law no longer uses terms like “custody” or “visitation.” Instead, the focus is on creating a parenting plan that outlines parental responsibility and time-sharing arrangements. The court’s primary goal is to protect the best interests of the child, which includes encouraging ongoing, healthy relationships with both parents whenever possible.
Key elements of a parenting plan include:
- A detailed time-sharing schedule (weekdays, weekends, holidays, vacations)
- Designation of parental decision-making responsibilities (education, healthcare, etc.)
- Communication guidelines between parents and the child
- Methods for resolving future disputes
We work closely with our clients to create customized parenting plans that meet their child’s needs and reflect the unique dynamics of their family. When disputes arise, we advocate for fair, practical solutions and, if necessary, represent you in court.
Legal and Physical Custody (Parental Responsibility and Time-Sharing)
Parental Responsibility refers to a parent’s right to make decisions about the child’s upbringing, such as schooling, healthcare, and religion. Courts often favor shared parental responsibility, but in some cases—especially where abuse, neglect, or high conflict is involved—sole parental responsibility may be granted.
Timesharing determines where the child will live and how much time they’ll spend with each parent. The court considers factors such as:
- Each parent’s relationship with the child
- The ability of each parent to provide a stable home
- The child’s needs and developmental stage
- Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse
- The child’s preference, if age-appropriate
If contested, the appropriate timesharing arrangement will be established in court after a period of litigation, including a trial in some circumstances. Our goal is always to advocate for a time-sharing arrangement that supports your child’s emotional and physical well-being, while also protecting your parental rights.
Child Support in Seminole, Florida
In Florida, both parents are financially responsible for supporting their children, regardless of marital status. Court-ordered child support is typically determined using the Florida Child Support Guidelines, which take into account:
- Each parent’s income
- The amount of time the child spends with each parent
- Health insurance and child care costs
- The number of children being supported
We assist parents in calculating fair child support obligations, arguing for or against a deviation from the guidelines, modifying existing orders when circumstances change, and enforcing unpaid support when necessary. Whether you are the paying or receiving parent, we ensure your child’s needs are met and your financial rights are protected.
Modifications and Enforcement
Life changes—and sometimes, parenting plans and support orders must change too. If you’ve experienced a substantial change in circumstances, such as a job loss, relocation, or change in the child’s needs, you may be eligible for a modification.
We help parents petition for or defend against changes to custody and support orders. We also assist with enforcement if the other parent is not complying with court-ordered obligations.
Protecting Fathers’ and Grandparents’ Rights
We proudly advocate for the rights of fathers seeking equal time with their children and a voice in important decisions. We also help grandparents assert visitation rights in appropriate situations when it serves the best interests of the child.
Serving Seminole Families with Care and Dedication
At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, we believe that every child deserves stability, support, and the love of both parents when possible. We’re committed to helping families in Seminole, Florida, resolve custody and support matters with compassion and strength.
Whether your case is straightforward or highly contested, we’ll be there to provide honest advice, strong advocacy, and a legal strategy tailored to your goals and your child’s best interests.
Contact the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman Today
If you’re facing a child custody or support issue in Seminole, don’t go through it alone. Let us help you protect your child’s future and your parental rights. Call our office today for a free telephone consultation to learn how we can support you through every step of the process.