Shore Acres Child Custody & Support Attorney
Child custody and support are among the most critical aspects of any family law case, as they directly impact both the well-being of children and the rights of parents. Pinellas County family courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining custody and support arrangements, and judges rely on the evidence and legal arguments presented by the parents in making that determination. Whether you are facing a custody dispute, need to establish child support, or require modifications to an existing order, an experienced Shore Acres child custody & support attorney at the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman can help you work through the legal process and protect your parental rights.
Understanding Parenting and Timesharing in Florida
Florida law refers to child custody and visitation as “parenting and timesharing,” emphasizing the importance of both parents maintaining an active role in their child’s life whenever appropriate. Instead of awarding sole or joint custody, Florida courts tend to create or endorse a parenting plan that outlines each parent’s rights and responsibilities, including:
- How major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing (education, healthcare, and religious matters) will be made.
- A timesharing schedule detailing when the child will be with each parent.
- Methods for communication between parents and between the child and each parent.
The goal of Florida’s parenting laws is to ensure children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents whenever possible.
Factors Considered in Child Custody Decisions
When determining a parenting and timesharing plan, Florida courts consider various factors, including the ability of each parent to provide a stable home environment, the physical and mental health of each parent, the child’s relationship with each parent and other family members, each parent’s willingness to encourage a relationship between the child and the other parent, the child’s preference, if they are of sufficient age and maturity, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
Each case is unique, and the court carefully evaluates all relevant factors to create a plan that serves the child’s best interests.
Establishing Child Support in Shore Acres
Child support is designed to ensure that both parents contribute financially to their child’s upbringing. This often amounts to one parent making payments to the other parent for the benefit of the child. In Florida, child support calculations are based on statutory guidelines that consider factors such as each parent’s income and earning capacity, the number of overnights the child spends with each parent, healthcare and childcare expenses, and the child’s specific needs, including education and medical costs.
The Florida Child Support Guidelines help determine a fair and reasonable support amount, but deviations may be permitted based on special circumstances.
Modifying Child Custody or Support Orders
Life circumstances change, and there may come a time when an existing custody or support order needs to be modified. In Shore Acres, modifications may be granted if there is a substantial change in circumstances, such as a parent’s relocation, a significant change in income, or a change in the child’s needs, such as educational or medical requirements.
To successfully modify a court order, you must provide evidence that the requested change is in the best interests of the child. If one party contests a proposed modification, the dispute must be resolved either through negotiation, mediation or litigation.
Enforcement of Custody and Support Orders
If one parent fails to comply with a custody or support order, legal enforcement actions may be necessary. In Florida, courts can enforce orders through measures such as wage garnishment, suspension of driver’s licenses, or even contempt proceedings. If the other parent is not upholding their legal obligations, an attorney can help you take the necessary steps to ensure compliance.
Work With an Experienced Family Law Attorney for Child Custody and Support in Shore Acres
Child custody and support matters can be challenging, but legal support can help you deal with them appropriately. The Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman is dedicated to helping parents in Shore Acres achieve fair and favorable outcomes in custody and support cases. Whether you need assistance with establishing a parenting plan, securing child support, or modifying an existing order, Attorney Kevin F. Coleman provides knowledgeable and compassionate legal representation.
For personalized legal guidance on child custody and support in Shore Acres, contact the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman today for a no-cost telephone consultation to discuss your needs.