Understanding The Child’s Best Interests In A Florida Custody Case

If you’re approaching a custody battle in Florida, you need to become very familiar with your child’s “best interests.” Now, you may believe that you already know all about your child’s best interests – perhaps better than any other person on Earth. However, it’s important to note that family courts are very specific about these best interests, and they look at factors that you may not be aware of. By understanding the various factors that are taken into account by family courts, you can approach your custody battle with maximum efficiency.

A lawyer is your first line of defense as you prepare for your custody battle. With their assistance, you can learn more about the best interests of your child as defined by the court. Each situation is different, and internet research is too broad and vague to provide targeted, effective legal guidance. Although you might believe that a lawyer can do all the work for you, you might need to make some adjustments in your own personal life based on these best interests. For best results, it makes sense to book your consultation as soon as possible.

What Are a “Child’s Best Interests?” 

First, consider the fact that divorce courts only consider the child’s best interests when determining custody decisions. The only thing they’re concerned with is the well-being of the child. All other factors are meaningless – including the personal desires and wishes of each parent. This means that you need to frame your entire strategy around your child’s needs while avoiding speaking about your own personal desires.

A Child’s Best Interests in Florida 

Divorce courts in Florida examine a number of factors when determining the child’s best interests, such as:

• Whether each parent can encourage a close parent-child relationship
• Whether each parent can honor the time-sharing schedule
• Whether each parent can be reasonable when changes are required
• How parental responsibilities will be divided after the divorce
• The length of time the child has lived in a stable environment
• The geographic distances between parents
• The moral fitness of each parent
• The mental and physical health of each parent
• The home, school, and community record of the child
• The preference of the child
• How much you know about your child’s friends, teachers, medical needs, daily activities, and favorite things
• Whether the parent can provide a consistent routine for the child
• The ability of the parent to communicate effectively with their ex
• Evidence of any past abuse
• Evidence of providing false information to the court
• Whether you’re involved in your child’s extra-curricular activities
• Past evidence of substance abuse
• Whether you have discussed litigation openly with your child in the past

Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified, experienced Orlando divorce attorney, look no further than Steve Marsee, P.A. Over the years, we have helped numerous spouses with their custody battles in the Sunshine State. With our assistance, you can strive for the best possible results and become educated on the various factors that could impact your custody battle. Book your consultation today to get started with an effective, targeted legal strategy.

Sources: 

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html

flcourts.org/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Courts