Joint Custody in Pensacola

Need to Fight for Joint Custody? Call – 800-822-5170!

At The Virga Law Firm, P.A., we provide knowledgeable legal assistance to clients facing divorce and family law issues. Joint custody in the state of Florida is granted based on the child’s best interests. Our child custody lawyers will work diligently to build your case and represent you as you seek custody of your child. We know family law cases are emotionally challenging. From start to finish, our team will answer your questions, help you make informed decisions, and guide you through the process.

Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.

What You Need to Know About Joint Custody Laws in Pensacola

In the state of Florida, the courts do not like to use the term “custody.” Instead, they refer to custody arrangements as time-sharing schedules. This specifies the time each parent has with the child, including holidays, weekends, and vacations. In joint custody situations, the parents may receive a fairly equal amount of time with the child. However, in most cases, the court will grant one parent primary residence with the child ( known as majority time-sharing status), while the other parent will have visitation rights (minority time-sharing status).

In addition to physical time with the child, the parents will be granted decision-making power, known as parental responsibility. Shared parental responsibility requires both parents to work together to reach an agreement regarding various aspects of the child's upbringing. This may involve healthcare, religious training, education, and extracurricular activities.

The Child's Best Interests Determine Joint Custody Arrangements

Even if you and the other parent agree on a time-sharing schedule, you will need to get it approved by the court. Your son or daughter’s best interests will be the determining factor regarding joint time-sharing schedules and shared parental responsibility. We will work diligently to not only uphold your rights, but to protect your child’s best interests.

When determining the child’s best interests, the courts will consider several factors:

• The physical, emotional, and mental health of each parent
• Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect
• The age, sex, and health of the child
• Each parent’s ability to care for the child

Furthermore, the child’s wishes will be considered if he or she is deemed to be of sufficient maturity, intelligence, and understanding. The time-sharing schedule will need to be reasonable for each parent, and will need to provide the child with stability and security. If one parent poses a threat to the child, the court may order supervised or restricted visitation.

We Will Work Diligently to Meet Your Specific Needs

If you are seeking custody of your child, The Virga Law Firm, P.A. will provide compassionate representation. Our attorneys have more than 100 years of combined legal experience, and will discuss your options regarding joint time-sharing schedules. We are committed to protecting your relationship with your children. From start to finish, we will work diligently to meet your legal needs and uphold your son or daughter's best interests.

Call our office today at 800-822-5170 to discuss your case with a member of our legal team.