The Burden is on the Parent Seeking the Modification
It is possible to make modifications to a court ordered parenting plan. However, the burden is on the parent that wants to change the time-sharing arrangement. It must be shown that there have been significant changes in circumstances since the last order was entered and that there are valid reasons for making new arrangements for the children.
When seeking a father’s custody rights or any changes to existing parenting plans, it is important to show that that you have been, and are willing to continue to be, cooperative with the other parent on all issues that relate to your children. You also must prove that you are willing to keep the other parent informed on the important activities that happen while the children are in your care. Custody rights are a highly technical area of the law. You will need to contact an attorney to determine if your present custody or time-sharing arrangement can be modified and for expert counsel on how to proceed.
There is no clear-cut method used to determine whether a ruling will favor the father or the mother. If you are seeking custody rights or a modification, it is in your best interest to be represented by the attorneys of In Law We Trust Divorce and Family Lawyers We are highly skilled, have a vast amount of experience, and years of success in litigating for father’s rights in the Florida courts.
Supervised Visits
If there has been any history or allegations of abuse, Florida courts will order “supervised” visitation by either parent for a period of time. When that is the case, an independent evaluator will be assigned to supervise the visitation period and the evaluator will document the interaction between the parents and the children. A report will then be filed for the court’s review in order to determine the child’s custody. The evidence found will be submitted in order to determine which custody arrangement or parenting plan will be in the best interest of the children.
How Much Say Does a Child Have?
In certain situations, while not common, when a child reaches 16 years of age the court may ask the child whether they want to live with their mother or their father. This may occur if the court believes that the child is mature enough to choose their preferred custody arrangement. However, if the judge believes that the preference stated is not in the child’s best interest, the child’s decision will not be granted.
Parenting Classes
Florida law requires that both parents attend a parenting class before they get a divorce. To ensure your parental rights, you must be willing to take part in this class and be proactive in showing that you are engaged in all that needs to be done for the betterment of your children. This class helps fathers understand the short-term and long-term changing roles they will have in their children’s lives. Classes will also teach a parent about methods to help clarify and cope with the new interactions with their ex as they deal with matters concerning the children. If you are a father, approach these classes with a positive attitude. They will help you get through your divorce in a more healthy and mature way, and also help you gain a clear understanding about what is best for your children.
Get Experienced Florida Lawyers
Whatever your questions are with regard to the modification of custody or time-sharing, it is important that you discuss all the factors with an experienced family law attorney. In Law We Trust Divorce and Family Lawyers will assess your situation and determine if a modification is necessary or even possible. If so, our attorneys will prepare your case. Our team of lawyers, who specialize in representing fathers, will fight for the rights you deserve!
Call The Family Law Experts Men Trust (813) 415-3510
In Law We Trust Divorce and Family Lawyers is a premier firm of divorce lawyers representing men in family law proceedings. We are uniquely positioned to assist our clients with the challenges men face in Florida’s court system. Call us today and get the proper representation men need and deserve.
John DeGirolamo has a heartfelt passion for representing the underdog in an environment that is often unjustly stacked against his clients. He’s earned the trust of tens of thousands of Tampa men seeking a divorce, working with them to create a smooth, fair outcome of their years spent as dedicated husbands & caring fathers.
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