South Pasadena Child Custody & Support Attorney
When parents separate or divorce, determining child custody and support arrangements can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of the process. Florida law prioritizes the best interests of the child, ensuring that children receive the care, stability, and financial support they need. However, the judges in a custody or support matter only know what the parents tell them, making effective legal representation crucial. If you are facing a child custody or support dispute, having an experienced South Pasadena child custody & support attorney by your side is critical to protecting your parental rights and ensuring the best possible outcome for your family.
At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, we provide compassionate, knowledgeable legal representation to parents dealing with child custody and support in South Pasadena. We are committed to helping families resolve these issues efficiently and effectively while minimizing conflict whenever possible.
Child Custody in Florida: Parental Responsibility and Time-Sharing
Florida no longer uses the term custody but instead refers to parental responsibility and time-sharing. These legal terms emphasize the importance of both parents being involved in their child’s life unless doing so would be harmful to the child.
Parental Responsibility
Parental responsibility refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Florida courts generally award shared parental responsibility, meaning both parents must consult and agree on major decisions. However, if one parent is deemed unfit due to factors such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse, the court may grant sole parental responsibility to the other parent.
Time-Sharing (Physical Custody)
Time-sharing refers to how much time each parent spends with the child. Florida courts prefer shared time-sharing whenever possible, as maintaining a strong relationship with both parents is considered beneficial to the child. A parenting plan is required that outlines the specific time-sharing schedule, including where the child will live, holiday and vacation schedules, transportation arrangements, and communication guidelines between parents and the child. The parents should work together to create a parenting plan, but the court can impose one when the parents can’t agree.
Each case is unique, and courts make time-sharing decisions based on factors such as:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment
- The child’s educational and emotional needs
- The mental and physical health of both parents
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse
Child Support in Florida
In Florida, child support is legally required to ensure both parents contribute financially to raising their children. The amount of child support is determined based on Florida’s Child Support Guidelines, which consider factors such as each parent’s income, the number of overnight stays the child has with each parent, health insurance and medical expenses, and childcare and educational costs.
Modifying Child Support Orders
If there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a job loss, a substantial increase in income, or a change in the child’s needs, either parent can request a modification of the child support order. However, the court will only approve modifications if there is a substantial and lasting change that affects the financial well-being of the child.
What Happens if a Parent Fails to Pay Child Support?
If a parent fails to meet their child support obligations, Florida law provides enforcement mechanisms, including wage garnishment, intercepting tax refunds, suspension of driver’s licenses or professional licenses, seizure of bank accounts, and contempt of court proceedings, which could lead to fines or jail time. At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, we provide practical advice and effective advocacy to parents in child support enforcement matters, ensuring that children receive the financial support they deserve.
How We Can Help with Child Custody and Support Cases in South Pasadena
Navigating child custody and support issues can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman, we offer personalized legal solutions tailored to your unique situation. Whether you need help establishing a parenting plan, modifying an existing custody or support order, or enforcing your parental rights, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Why Choose Us?
- Experienced Family Law Attorney – We understand Florida’s custody and support laws and know how to protect your rights.
- Compassionate Legal Support – We prioritize the well-being of your child while advocating for your best interests.
- Strong Courtroom Representation – If negotiations fail, we are prepared to fight for you in court.
- Personalized Strategies – Every family is different, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.
Contact Attorney Kevin F. Coleman for Help with Child Custody and Support in South Pasadena
If you are facing child custody or support issues in South Pasadena, Florida, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact the Law Office of Kevin F. Coleman today for a confidential consultation. We are dedicated to protecting your rights as a parent and ensuring that your child’s future is secure.