How is Child Custody Determined in the State of Florida?
With divorce being such a contentious process in the state of Florida, child custody is one of the most important factors that must be discussed. When children are involved, this can often complicate things quite a bit. And a number of tough decisions must be made, on behalf of the best interests of the child. As the best family lawyer Boca Raton has to offer, Mr. Steven Veinger has helped countless parents to win child custody, in even the most tumultuous of battles. Depending on the specific circumstances that surround each case, the state of Florida will generally try their best to provide both parents with a fair amount of access to the child or children – as children will generally fair better with both parents in their lives. One of the worst things that can happen is a brutal custody battle, in which both parents are combative and fight hard to win custody from one another. This can often end badly for the children most of all, as the discord creates unwanted strain and a poor environment for them to be raised in. Despite their attempts to give equal time to each parent, one parent must still be considered the custodial parent – and judges will take into account a variety of factors in determining which parent it should be.
First and foremost, the judges in the state of Florida will take into consideration, which parent was the primary caregiver to the child. Essentially, which parent had spent the most time caring ofr the child and supporting them through the most important aspects of their life, including their education, providing medical care, taking part in any extracurricular activities, and recreational ventures. According to Mr. Veingerthe best family lawyer Boca Raton has in practice, this is the parent most likely to win custody. In addition, another important factor is that if that parent can work well with the other, and will also help their child to foster a strong relationship with the other parent. In many cases, one parent may talk badly about the other to the children, and attempt to win favor from the child by telling them negative things about their former spouse. This can only cause strife within the child and be a key to damaging the relationship the children will have with either parent.
In addition to these factors, there are a number of other important factors we must take into account, including:
· The living situation of each parent.
Judges will pay close attention to where each parent lives – what type of neighborhood they live in (good or bad?), the school district in which they are in, the type of dwelling they reside in (a small apartment or large house), and whether or not their living situation is suitable for a child.
· Their ability for them to care for the child.
If they can spend time with the child or do they work day and night? Do they have enough room for the child, what their lifestyle is like? And much more.
· Mental and physical health.
It is important to note if the parent is physically fit to care for a child in addition to themselves, or if they are going through some type of serious health issues and need to focus on themselves. Also, their mental capacity is vital, as they will be responsible for another person’s life.
· Occupation and income.
Can they afford to care for the child and provide for their needs. Do they work a stable job, with regular hours and can they provide stability for the child – during both normal times and times of emergency.
According to Mr. Veinger, the Best Family Lawyer Boca Raton has to offer, once these determinations are made, judges will often simply ask the child which parent they prefer to live with, as long as they are somewhat mature and old enough to give a solid answer with reason. This is definitely taken into account; however the above factors generally weigh most heavily. For more information on child custody issues be sure to contact Mr. Steven Veinger today.