Child Custody and Child Custody Laws
Factors used to decide Primary Custody - Click each to learn more
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NOTE: New custody factors are in effect as of October 1, 2008. NEW CUSTODY LAW
Child Custody topics:
Rotating Child Custody - Joint Custody
Using Internet Webcams for Visitation - Virtual Visitation
Minimizing the Effect of Divorce on Children
International Abduction - Passport Suspension
Parent Coordination - a less destructive solution
Grandparent Rights to Child Custody and Visitation
Common Visitation Schedules with Children - Visitation GuidelinesIn divorce court - women no longer have all the power
Child Custody Statutes - Florida Law on Child Custody
Who Gets Custody of the Children
How is Child Support Determined
Relocating to a New Area with your Child
Helping Children With The Trauma of a Divorce
Common questions and answers
Do Mothers always get Primary Custody? Mothers do not necessarily get primary custody in Florida. Custody, also referred to as the primary residential parent, is decided based on a list of factors - shown above. There are no gender preferences in the child custody laws.
Can my spouse disappear with my child? Unless you are divorced or currently filing for divorce each parent has full rights to the child - including relocation. You are not protected until the divorce is filed.
Can we jointly decide the amount of child support? Usually the answer is no. Florida has set guidelines. See our section on child support.
Is child support tax deductible? The short answer is No.
Preparing for a Child Custody Case
Child custody is a complex decision and the court must consider a list of factors before making a decision. Each spouse has a great opportunity to educate themselves about child custody factors, and applicable child custody laws. The spouse that successfully does this has the inside track on getting primary custody. More important, that spouse will be doing positive things for their children.
A good divorce attorney will work with you in maximizing your chances at keeping or getting primary custody of your children. A combination of properly structured visitation, encouragement of shared parenting, and minimization of conflict are all good for a child and will positively influence a court decision.
Read all of the factors in Florida child custody law until you thoroughly understand them. Then look at the way you live your life and make sure your life fits the standards - in a way that looks positive for you. There are many books and websites devoted to coaching parents that are going through a child custody case.
Child Custody Evaluation
Many cases in the Tampa Bay area go through a child custody investigator. This procedure is also called a custody evaluation, a home study, or a social study. The underlying purpose is the same - to make sure you are an appropriate custodian for your child. The child custody factors are a good place to start with, when going through a custody evaluation.
The Divorce Center provides experienced custody attorneys that can help with child custody in Tampa, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Hillsborough, Florida. We have offices in Clearwater, Tampa, and New Port Richey, Florida. Call us toll free at 1-888-469-3486. Our managing partner, Attorney Howard Iken, is experienced in child custody law and assisting parents that desire primary custody.
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If you are looking for divorce information you will find tons of free information on this website. Divorce Attorney Howard Iken personally created this website with a personal mission: to help people at this critical moment in their lives and to make the process of divorce easier, more understandable, & less intimidating. CONTACT US NOW or call 888-469-3486