Panama Beach City Child Custody Attorneys

Protect Your Child’s Best Interests

Determining “child custody” is one of the most challenging aspects of the divorce process. This can be an incredibly emotional experience, as parents need to establish a strict parenting plan while simultaneously wishing to spend every second with their child. If parents can’t reach a decision or fail to present a reasonable time-sharing schedule, the court may order a determination that reflects the “child’s best interests.” However, parents always know their child best, so it’s important to work with an experienced legal representative who can help you negotiate a reasonable agreement.

The decisions you make today can have a lasting impact on your relationship with your child. Before you make any significant choices or concessions, contact the Panama Beach City child custody lawyers at The Virga Law Firm, P.A. Our legal team can utilize innovative negotiation techniques to help you and your spouse create a comprehensive parenting plan. If necessary, we can also litigate in court to protect your custody rights, even if it means modifying an existing court order because it no longer reflects your personal needs and life circumstances.

Call our Panama Beach City child custody lawyers at (800) 822-5170 if you require legal representation.

Florida’s Child Custody Laws

In 2011, Florida lawmakers signed a bill to modify the concept and terminology of “child custody.” Now, the court needs to establish “parental time sharing” and “parental responsibility” before issuing, modifying, or enforcing a court order. This updated legal approach is meant to safeguard the child’s overall safety and wellbeing.

Parents need to make the following determinations before finalizing their divorce:

• Which home will be the child’s primary residence?
• How will the time-sharing schedule be structured?
• Who will have custody on certain holidays or special occasions?
• Does the time-sharing schedule need to include any exceptions?
• Which parent(s) has the right to make decisions on behalf of the child?
• Who is the child’s primary healthcare provider?
• Where will the child go to school?
• Which parent will pay child support?

At The Virga Law Firm, P.A., we can help you develop a thorough parenting plan that acknowledges your legal rights and considers your child’s basic welfare. By collecting evidence and developing a strong litigation strategy, we can prove to the court that you are the best parent equipped to provide your child with a loving, safe, and financial stable living environment.

Florida law provides three forms of parental responsibility:

• Sole parental responsibility
• Shared parental responsibility
• Shared responsibility with ultimate decision-making authority

The court usually approves of a parenting plan so long as it allows both parents to maintain and develop positive relationships with their child. However, sole parental responsibility may be awarded if one parents has a history of abuse or is mentally or circumstantially unable to care for their child.

Over time, your time-sharing plan may not accurately reflect your personal circumstances or your child’s basic needs and preferences. Fortunately, Florida law allows parents to request parenting plan modifications so long as any proposed changes ultimately benefit their child.

Schedule a Consultation

We understand that this is a stressful and emotional time for you. Let us help you navigate this complex legal process. If you’re planning to file for divorce or need guidance in developing a time-sharing schedule, contact the Panama Beach City child custody lawyers at The Virga Law Firm, P.A.

We accept calls 24/7! Contact The Virga Law Firm, P.A. at (800) 822-5170 to schedule a consultation.