Charlotte County Child Custody Lawyer

Guiding Clients Through Child Custody Matters in Florida

Because many times parents may be upset and not getting along well as a divorce looms, the issue of custody and visitation become areas that require careful handling by an experienced Charlotte County child custody and visitation attorney.

The care and well being of your child or children is of utmost importance not only to our office, but to the courts as well. The family law court system takes the health and happiness of children as one of the most important issues to work out in any divorce.

Get the guidance you need for your child custody case. Schedule a free consultation with a Charlotte County child custody lawyer by calling us at (941) 257-4743 or reaching out online now!

Types of Custody in Florida

Child custody in Charlotte County encompasses several aspects, including physical custody, legal custody, and the distinction between sole and joint custody.

• Physical Custody refers to where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. This can be arranged in various ways, such as a primary residence with one parent or a shared arrangement.

• Legal Custody involves the right to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious training. Parents may share legal custody or one may be granted sole legal custody.

• Sole vs. Joint Custody is another crucial factor. Joint custody allows both parents to share rights and responsibilities, while sole custody grants one parent full authority over decisions and living arrangements.

Most parents will share parental responsibility for their children after the divorce. In doing so, you must communicate and confer with each other in making decisions that will affect your children. Usually, the court will give one parent primary residential care (custody) of the children.

Unless there is a good reason, the court will grant the other parent frequent visitation.

Factors Influencing Custody Decisions

The court decides custody solely on what is best for the children. Often, one of the parties is hurt by the decision, especially if that party sees the decision in a "win/lose" light. In truth, there can be no loser if the children's welfare is protected.

In order to decide what is the best interest of the children, the court may take into account factors such as:

• Emotional ties to each parent and and their specific needs.

• Parent's ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment.

• Relationships with siblings and other family members.

• Child's preferences, depending on the child’s age and maturity.

• History of abuse or neglect.

Mediation in Child Custody Cases

In virtually all custody contests, the court will direct both parties to participate in mediation to resolve that issue. A mediator is an unbiased third party who can often assist the parties in reaching agreement upon what is best for the children.

An agreement on custody will certainly make your case easier and help your children immeasurably in dealing with your divorce.

However, while mediation can be amicable, it may not be suitable in all situations. If there is a history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or significant power imbalances, mediation may not provide a safe environment for productive discussions. In such cases, it may be necessary to pursue litigation to protect your rights and your children’s well-being.

Take the first step toward securing your child’s future. Schedule your free consultation with a Charlotte County child custody lawyer by calling us at (941) 257-4743 or contacting us online today!

What are the Chances of a Father Getting Full Custody in Florida?

In Florida, it is rare for either parent to get full custody of the child. However, it is not impossible. In order for a court to grant full custody to either parent, the court must determine that shared parental responsibility would be harmful to the children and not in their best interests. Therefore, in order for a father to get full custody in Florida, he must show the court that giving any parental responsibility to the mother would be detrimental to the children involved.

Demonstrating that the mother is likely to undermine the relationship between the father and the children or that she is unlikely to adhere to the court-ordered time-sharing plan are two examples of circumstances that could result in full custody for the father. So as a father, you must show without a shadow of a doubt that you are the best parent and that the mother would be a terrible parent for your child.

Modifications to Custody Arrangements

Life is full of changes, and sometimes custody arrangements need to be modified to reflect new circumstances. Whether it’s a change in a parent’s job, relocation, or a significant change in the child’s needs, Bogle Law can assist in seeking modifications to existing custody orders.

To pursue a modification, you must demonstrate a substantial change in circumstances that warrants a reevaluation of the current arrangement. Our legal team is skilled in presenting compelling arguments to the court, ensuring that the child’s best interests remain the priority.

Contact Our Child Custody Attorney in Charlotte County Today

When spouses can't work out an agreeable schedule of visitation, then a court ordered schedule of visitation usually occurs. In this case, one or the other spouse may wish to change or increase the time they get to spend with their children. Any such changes require a legal application be made to the court.

Other issues can arise, such as a spouse failing to keep their appointed scheduled visits, or keeping the children longer than authorized. These are all serious circumstances that are best addressed with the assistance of a professional who can direct you in your legal rights. Call us today to arrange an appointment to discuss your child custody issues.

If you are considering divorce, contact Florida divorce lawyer Tauna R. Bogle, P.A. to discuss child custody and other key matters.