One of the most complicated aspects of divorce is what will happen to the children. As a parent, you likely have concerns about how the end of your marriage will impact your children and how you can protect their well-being. You understand the importance of securing a child custody order that is fair and allows your children continuity of lifestyle as much as possible.
As you move forward with divorce, it may be beneficial to learn about child custody and your rights as a parent. When you are informed, it can help you make smart decisions and pursue a strong and stable future for your children. This is especially smart if your custody case will go before a Florida family law court.
How does a court decide?
Above all else, the primary concern of any court will be to protect the best interests of the children. However, you have the right to present your case and pursue an outcome that you believe will be best for you and your kids. There are a variety of custody plans available, and the courts will often look closely at various aspects of your family life as it considers its ruling.
Children benefit when allowed to have a strong relationship with both parents after divorce, and many courts now favor joint or shared custody plans to allow for this. When making a decision about custody for your children, the court may ask the following questions:
- Who is the primary caretaker for the children?
- What is the child’s preference?
- What will provide the child with as stability and security as possible?
It can be frustrating to leave the future of your family in the hands of an impersonal judge and family law court. This is why many parents decide to set aside their feelings toward each other to resolve custody disputes out of court.
You do not have to face custody matters alone
Child custody, visitation and parenting plans are some of the most sensitive and emotionally charged issues in a divorce. It can be difficult to know what to do or how to proceed in a way that allows you and your kids to have a strong post-divorce future.
It may be helpful for you to learn about your legal options and how you can protect your parental rights by seeking a complete evaluation of your case. An experienced attorney can help you understand how child custody works and how you can secure the interests of your children.