Recent Updates
April 28, 2010
State Must Prove Defendant's Knowledge of Driver's License Suspension
April 13, 2010
Sentencing Commission Votes to Eliminate Recent Criminal History Points
October 15, 2009
Consent to search inside of vehicle does not extend to locked containers
October 14, 2009
Making phone calls to get drugs for personal use not a felony
October 07, 2009
Duval County schools agree to reduce number of students getting arrested
Family
Child Parenting Plans
October 21, 2008
Florida law divides parenting issues into three categories: parental responsibility, time sharing and support. This articles examines the decision-making section of a parenting plan.
First, the law requires divorced parents share parental responsibility for their child after divorce, unless shared responsibility is detrimental to the child. Florida has adopted the concept of shared parental responsibility when determining the custody of children. Under this theory, each parent retains full parental rights and responsibilities for raising the child. Parents are encouraged to confer with one another on issues affecting the welfare of the child, insuring that each parent plays an active role in the child's life.
Unfortunately however, shared parental responsibility doesn't mean that each parent will have equal time with the child. Typically, the court will designate one parent as the primary custodial parent, meaning the parent with whom the child spends the most time. The secondary custodial parent will be awarded ample visitation with the child. Parents should attempt to work out an amicable visitation schedule, and most circuits have adopted minimum visitation guidelines to ensure that each parent is having adequate access to the child. If parties are unable to agree on custody and visitation issues, the court will decide those matters for them. In making their rulings, Florida Courts will always base their decision on the "best interest of the child".
