Protect Your Parenting Time With Your Child
Child custody, also known as parenting time in Florida, may be the most contentious legal issue that you ever face. Whether you are divorcing or are not married to the other parent, your best option is to work with a lawyer who has the experience and skill to protect your right to see your child.
People from Port New Richey, Lutz and the surrounding area often place their trust in Russell G. Marlowe, PA. As a Florida family law attorney for over 32 years, I have the knowledge, experience and compassion necessary to help you navigate a custody negotiation or battle. While I strive for reaching an agreement with the other parent, I am always ready to go to trial if that is in your best interests. In addition to original custody agreements/parenting plans, I handle modifications and enforcement of existing orders.
What Does The Court Look For In Parenting Plans?
Florida courts often provide substantial parenting time unless there is a strong reason not to, such as child abuse, domestic violence or concerns about parental fitness. The details of the case will determine how much parenting time each parent will receive. It may not be a 50-50 split. If it is not, the parent with less time typically pays child support to the parent with the majority of parenting time. I will make sure your parenting time is calculated fairly.
The courts look at what is in the best interests of the child to determine parenting time. This may include issues such as:
- The quality of the relationship of each parent with the child
- The parental fitness of each parent
- Whether travel time makes executing the parenting plan difficult
- The length of time the child has been in a stable home
- Each parent’s physical and mental health
- The willingness of each parent to communicate with each other about the child
- The “reasonable preference of the child” regarding his or her feelings about which parent to live with
This is not a comprehensive list. Please contact me to learn more about all the factors the court considers in custody cases. I can explain how the law will apply to your unique circumstances.
This Is The Time To Get Answers
I know it can feel overwhelming and scary to get started with a child custody case, but the sooner we begin, the better prepared we will be. Please arrange a initial consultation with me by calling 727-490-8877 or completing our online form. We will get back to you promptly.