In Seminole Child Custody Cases, Parenting Classes Required

Legal matters involving children are among the most sensitive types of court cases. When child custody is an issue, the court’s primary concern is ensuring the child’s best interests are protected. One of the precautions taken during these proceedings is to require parenting classes before a final child custody order or parenting plan is issued. Our Seminole child custody attorney explains more about these classes, when they are required, and what to expect.

Parenting Classes Mandatory In Florida Child Time Sharing Proceedings 

When a couple with children gets a divorce or in cases involving unmarried parents, child custody is an important matter that must be resolved. In general, child time sharing arrangements are encouraged, which allow both parties to remain active and involved in the child’s life.

In child time-sharing proceedings held through the Pinellas County Family Court, parenting plans typically dictate the terms. These specify:

• The amount of time the child spends in each parent’s home during the week;
• Rights regarding weekends, holidays, and special occasions;
• The right to make important decisions on the child’s behalf;
• Pick-up or drop-off arrangements and other matters.

Prior to approving a parenting plan and issuing a final court order, the parties involved must take a parenting class. Most people pride themselves on their parenting skills and their ability to provide for and nurture their child, so they often balk at taking these classes.

However, the primary purpose is to protect the child’s best interests and to ensure parents are aware of important issues that may arise. Even in cases where it may not be needed and you and the other party agree on all terms, state law makes parenting classes mandatory.

What To Expect When Taking Parenting Classes In Pinellas County

Parenting classes are required in any type of case involving child custody and time sharing under the Florida Statutes. These classes aim at educating the parents on issues that impact both them and their child. Some of the topics you can expect to be covered include:

• The effect divorce or living in a single parent home has on children;
• The emotional issues parents in these situations often experience;
• Legal issues pertaining to parenting plans, child custody, and child support;
• Your rights and responsibilities in this situation;
• Ways to make the process easier for yourself and your children;
• Community resources that are available;
• Information regarding special circumstances, such as spousal or child abuse and neglect. 

Contact With Our Seminole Child Time Sharing Attorney 

In legal matters impacting you and your child, it is important to know what to expect. At The Reep Law Firm, we thoroughly review your case, the circumstances involved, and advise you on how state laws are likely to apply.

As experienced Seminole family attorneys, you can count on us to provide the trusted legal guidance when facing these types of proceedings. Get the professional representation you need to protect your child’s best interests and your rights as a parent. Call or contact us online and request a one-on-one consultation today.

Sources:

mypinellasclerk.org/Home/Family

leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.21.html#:~:text=(2)%20The%20Department%20of%20Children,divorce%20on%20parents%20and%20children