How Do I Get Full Custody Of A Child In Pinellas County?
Navigating child custody disputes in Pinellas County can be one of the most challenging aspects of a divorce or separation. Florida courts generally encourage child time-sharing whenever possible, which allows both parents to be active and involved in their child’s life.
However, protecting the child’s safety and best interests is the court’s top priority, which may warrant different arrangements. Our Seminole child custody-visitation attorney explains the circumstances under which you may be awarded full custody of your child.
Pinellas County Child Time-sharing Generally Encouraged By The Court
Child custody is generally one of the most contested issues in Pinellas County Family Court proceedings. In cases of divorce or when unmarried parents do not live together, the Florida Statutes generally encourage child time-sharing arrangements, dividing parental rights and responsibilities between the two parties.
Parenting plans are used in this situation to help ensure that children maintain meaningful relationships with both parents. Parents are expected to work together in making and implementing the following arrangements, which will be included as part of a final child custody order in Seminole:
- A time-sharing schedule detailing the amount of time the child spends in each parent’s home;
- Provisions for holidays, school breaks, birthdays, and other special occasions;
- Decision-making authority regarding the child’s education, medical care, religious upbringing, and other important matters;
- Procedures for pick-ups, drop-offs, and travel arrangements;
- Communication between the parents regarding scheduling or matters impacting the child.
Factors That May Warrant Awarding You Full Custody
Shared parenting rights and responsibilities are the goal in Pinellas County child custody proceedings. While generally considered in the child’s best interests, there are exceptions and certain circumstances where awarding one parent full custody may be a better option.
Judges evaluate each parent’s proven ability to nurture the child and provide a safe, stable home when determining child time-sharing and parental rights. Behaviors on the part of the other parent that may warrant awarding you full custody include:
- A prior history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect;
- Mental health problems, alcoholism, or substance abuse;
- Criminal behavior and hanging out with a sketchy crowd;
- Exposing the child to unsafe situations;
- Attempting to alienate the child from the other parent;
- Refusing to submit to the terms of a parenting plan;
- Threatening the other parent or otherwise trying to deprive them of their rights.
Depending on the child’s age and maturity level, the judge may also consider their preference in determining whether to award you full custody.
Contact Our Experienced Pinellas County Child Time-sharing Attorney Today
Child custody disputes are common in Pinellas County and could jeopardize both your child’s safety and your rights as a parent. To protect yourself in these proceedings, get The Reep Law Firm on your side.
Our office has extensive experience navigating Florida’s time-sharing laws and fighting for the best interests of children and their parents in Pinellas County. We provide trusted, professional legal representation, helping you get the best possible outcome in your case. To request a consultation, contact our experienced Seminole child time-sharing attorney today.
Sources:
mypinellasclerk.gov/Home/Family
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
