The Essential Role of a Child Custody Attorney
A contested child custody case can make a significant impact on the future of your life, as well as that of your children. Whether you are just starting your divorce proceedings or have already been separated for some time, a good Child Custody Attorney in West Palm Beach can help you understand your rights and legal options. There are many things that need to be considered, from the child’s best interests to living arrangements. This is why it’s important to work with an experienced lawyer who understands Florida family law inside and out.
What if I Can’t Agree on a Parenting Plan?
Some marriages are too strained to reach any kind of agreement. In these situations, the court will determine a parenting plan for the children. An attorney can help you draft a proposal that is consistent with the state’s laws and will increase your chances of getting a favorable ruling from the judge.
Often, parents can benefit from mediation to find common ground and move toward a settlement. This method of dispute resolution is less expensive and time-consuming than a contested trial. A seasoned attorney can help you prepare for mediation, and guide you in the process of resolving disputes through compromise.
Do I Need a Child Custody Attorney if I Have an Open Case?
Even if you and your former spouse are on friendly terms, it’s important to have a child custody attorney in West Palm Beach who can ensure that your voice is heard throughout the process. This is especially true if you have a history of domestic violence or if you are dealing with issues of substance abuse, which could affect your ability to raise your child in a healthy way.
Finding the best Family Law Firm in West Palm Beach
Cameron Marroney is a law firm that caters to clients in the West Palm Beach area. It assists individuals with resolving legal matters involving divorce, custody, support, property division, and other aspects of family law. Its attorneys have more than 35 years of combined experience. One of them, Glenn S. Cameron, is a Board Certified Civil Trial Specialist and a Fellow of The Florida Bar.
What Are Different Types of Child Custody?
There are two kinds of child custody in Florida: joint legal custody and shared physical custody. In a shared legal custody arrangement, both parents have an equal say in major decisions such as health, education, and religion. However, the child lives primarily with one parent. In a shared physical custody arrangement, both parents have the same amount of time with the child.
In some cases, the court may award a single parent sole physical custody of the child. This is typically the case when the judge finds that one parent has more emotional ties to the child than the other.
A court will take the child’s age, mental and physical condition, and preferences into account when making a decision. The judge will also consider the current living conditions of each parent, including their home environment and neighborhood safety.