If you require assistance in maintaining custody of your child, please read on, then contact an experienced Pensacola child custody lawyer to learn the dos and don’ts of child custody in Florida.
What should you do in a child custody case in Florida?
Judges in the Sunshine State will factor in the child’s age, gender, characteristics and background as they decide on custody. The judge will want to ensure that the child will be safe from any possible harm and the parent has the ability to meet the needs of the child. That said, you should do everything to prove you are a fit parent by Florida standards. You must show that you will be able to feed, clothe and shelter the child as well as prevent any undue stress or pain to him or her. Nobody is perfect, but you must demonstrate that you place the child’s best interests before your own.
What should you not do in a child custody case in Florida?
Simply put, you should not do anything that would lead the court to deem you an unfit parent. The list of things that will get you deemed unfit is long and varied, but the following are some of the most common:
- Engaging in criminal behavior, especially in the presence of children
- Using illegal drugs, especially in the presence of children
- Abusing your child or significant other
- Having an unsafe living environment
- Withholding the child from his or her other legal parent, siblings or extended family
- Disrupting or discontinuing the child’s education or community life
- Neglecting the child’s daily physical, emotional, developmental, educational and special needs
- Creating conflict, and/or inability to cooperate with the other parent
A host of other factors will play into the judge’s decision. To be fully apprised of the most likely considerations, you should reach out to a skilled Pensacola family law attorney to discuss your next steps.
How can a Pensacola family law attorney help you?
When taken out of their proper context, any actions might seem like those of an unfit parent, but the reality is often much more complicated. A qualified legal professional will keep you apprised of your rights and responsibilities as well as provide guidance through this daunting process. Do not go it alone. Give us a call today.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED PENSACOLA FIRM
For decades, the Law Office of James M. Burns has helped countless people through a wide array of legal issues, including those involving criminal law, family law, personal injury law, and will & probate law. If require the assistance of a competent legal team that can effectively guide you through each phase of your legal matter, you’ve come to the right place. Contact the Law Office of James M. Burns today to schedule your initial consultation.
