Common Child Custody Problems

In a divorce, one of the biggest issues is child custody. Child custody is often an emotional element because both parents want custody of the child, but they don’t really take into consideration the best interests of the child.

Florida Statutes Section 61.13 states that child custody decisions should be made by the court with the best interests of the child in mind. This involves various factors, such as the relationship the child has with both parents, the stability of the child, the physical and mental health of the parents, and the morality of the parents.

However, parents do not always think about what the child or the other parent wants. They may engage in battles with the other parent instead of handling things amicably.

It’s not uncommon for problems to arise during child custody proceedings. Here are some common issues to look for.

Visitation Disruptions

When a parent has scheduled visitation with a child, the other parent may go out of their way to disrupt it. They may not drop off the child at the right time or place. They may refuse the other parent visitation if they are not paying child support. Even if the court orders virtual visitation, a parent may block phone calls from the other parent. This is a violation of legal orders, which means the court will get involved.

Relocation

It’s not uncommon for a parent to want to move out of state for a job or to be closer to family. However, a parent who moves 50 or more miles away has to obtain either consent from the other parent or a court order. If the relocation is approved, it will no doubt make it harder for the other parent to spend time with the child.

Lack of Access to Information

Even when both parents have legal custody, it’s not uncommon for one parent to withhold information from the other. For example, they may not tell the parent about the child’s medical issues or school activities. This keeps one parent out of the loop, which is never a good idea.

Lack of Agreement About Upbringing

Parents often disagree about how children should be raised. Maybe one parent wants to raise the child with religion, while the other parent is an atheist. Or maybe one parent wants private school, while the other refuses to pony up money toward the tuition. It’s best to have a parenting agreement in place that outlines these issues, which tend to fall under legal custody.

Seek Legal Help

Child custody is often a contentious issue, but if the parents can put their emotions aside and focus on the child, the outcome will be a lot more favorable.

A Fort Lauderdale child custody lawyer Edward J. Jennings, P.A. can provide strong, effective representation so you get the outcome you desire. To schedule a consultation, fill out the online form or call our office at 954-764-4330.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html