Child custody arrangements are often part of finalizing a divorce, but this isn’t always the case. You may have kids with someone you weren’t married to and need it documented in the courts. Florida doesn’t show preference to one parent or the other unless the facts and circumstances warrant a different result. The state of Florida treats same-sex divorces similarly. Jacobs Law Firm, an Orlando child custody attorney, can explain different arrangements. If both parents can’t agree on terms, a judge will determine guardianship. The Florida courts rule based on the best interest of the child standard. Retaining an Orlando child custody attorney helps your case. 

Whether you’re seeking child custody during a divorce or for a paternity case, Jacobs Law Firm can evaluate your case and fight to get you the best outcome. Most divorces or arrangements result in what may be described as joint custody. In Florida family law parents generally have “shared parental responsibility.” Both parents may reach an agreement on child custody. Your family lawyer then drafts and recommends a parenting plan and time-sharing schedule to the court.

If you disagree on a child custody arrangement, a judge decides and establishes a plan. The court may also appoint a neutral party to assess the case. This person is called a “guardian ad litem.” All decisions made by the Florida family courts put the children’s best interests first. A judge may recommend your family lawyer to submit a parenting plan recommendation. The courts also require both parents to take a parenting course before the plan’s finalized. Going through a bitter custody battle may not give you the result you want. Jacobs Law Firm will be open and honest when discussing options with you. We practice family law in Orange County, Florida, and nearby areas. Our child custody attorneys also serve Seminole, Osceola, Pasco, and Lake counties.

Parents who have a strong reason and proof can seek sole child custody. One parent will have the authority to make decisions on behalf of the child. Seeking sole parental responsibility is difficult, and you need a strong case. You need a family law trial attorney to litigate for sole child custody before a judge. Jacobs Law Firm can evaluate your situation and inform you about your parental rights in Florida.

Sometimes, in special circumstances, children may have a parent that poses a risk. Another type of arrangement in Florida is called “supervised time-sharing.” This is where one parent will have visitation rights in the presence of another responsible adult. An Orlando child custody attorney can help you understand your rights. This custody arrangement protects the child from potential danger and may be temporary.

Contact Attorney Jacobs if you need an Orlando child custody attorney. Our family lawyers have experience in all situations that parents face.