Navigating child custody and support issues during a Tampa divorce attorney involves a careful understanding of Florida’s family law system, as Florida statutes are designed to prioritize children’s best interests and provide fair arrangements for both custody (called “time-sharing” in Florida) and financial support. Here’s a guide to some key considerations in handling these issues.

1. Understanding Time-Sharing (Custody) in Florida

  • Best Interests of the Child: Florida courts emphasize the “best interests of the child” as the primary standard. This can include evaluating factors like each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, their physical and mental health, and the child’s relationship with each parent.
  • Parenting Plan Requirement: Florida requires a parenting plan for all divorces involving children. This document lays out each parent’s rights and responsibilities, including time-sharing schedules, decision-making authority on health and education, and communication guidelines. The goal is to foster a stable environment and to keep both parents actively involved.
  • Types of Custody (Time-Sharing):
    • Shared Parental Responsibility: This is the preferred arrangement in Florida, where both parents share decision-making authority unless one is unfit.
    • Sole Parental Responsibility: Rarely awarded unless it is deemed best for the child’s safety and well-being.
  • Modification of Custody: Post-divorce, custody arrangements can be modified if there’s a significant, unanticipated change in circumstances, like a parent’s relocation or changes in the child’s needs.

2. Child Support Guidelines in Florida

  • Income-Based Calculations: Florida’s child support is calculated using the Income Shares Model, which considers the combined income of both parents, the number of children, and other specific expenses.
  • Health Insurance and Uncovered Medical Expenses: Parents are often required to maintain health insurance for the child. Medical expenses not covered by insurance are typically divided between the parents.
  • Deviation from Standard Calculations: In cases with unique circumstances, such as special needs of the child or parents, the court may adjust support requirements.

3. Relocation Considerations

  • In Florida, relocation (moving 50 miles or more away) by a custodial parent requires either the other parent’s approval or a court order. Courts will consider how relocation affects the child’s relationship with the other parent and whether it serves the child’s best interest.

4. Working with Professionals

  • Mediators: Florida courts encourage mediation to help parents resolve custody disputes outside of court. Mediation is generally less contentious and allows parents to develop a mutually agreed-upon plan.
  • Guardian ad Litem: In high-conflict cases, a Guardian ad Litem may be appointed to represent the child’s best interests. They conduct interviews, home visits, and may provide a recommendation to the court.

5. Court Involvement and Judicial Process

  • Temporary Orders: During the divorce process, courts may issue temporary orders for custody and support to ensure that the child’s needs are met while the case is ongoing.
  • Final Judgments: If parents cannot agree on time-sharing or support, the court will issue a final judgment based on the child’s best interests, financial calculations, and any other evidence presented.

6. Co-Parenting Challenges and Support

  • Communication: Building clear communication channels and maintaining respect can make co-parenting less stressful.
  • Parenting Coordination: In cases of high conflict, a parenting coordinator may be appointed to help parents communicate and implement the parenting plan.

Resources and Support in Tampa

  • Family Law Attorneys: Experienced family law attorneys can help navigate complex custody and support issues.
  • Family Counseling Services: Organizations in Tampa offer counseling for families going through divorce, which can be particularly beneficial for children coping with changes.

Florida’s approach to custody and support is child-centered, and Tampa courts will work to ensure that children receive stable care and adequate financial support while encouraging amicable co-parenting relationships whenever possible.