How Can an Attorney Help Resolve a Child Custody Dispute?

For unmarried parents or married couples with children who are divorcing, uncertainty regarding child custody matters can be extremely stressful. After all, for most parents, a close and meaningful relationship with their children is one of the most important aspects of their lives. Under Florida law, what is generally called “child custody” is actually referred to in the relevant statute as “time-sharing.” Courts have significant discretion in allocating the time a child spends with either parent, so it is important to make sure your position is advocated for strongly and in a way to which the court will respond. As a result, people who are involved in child custody disputes should be certain to retain legal counsel as soon as possible.

An experienced family law attorney can help you in a number of ways. Some of the most common are detailed below.

Act as an Intermediary Between You and Your Child’s Other Parent and/or Legal Counsel

People who are divorcing or have differing opinions as to how they should divide parenting time are often unable to communicate in a rational and productive way. Fortunately, when you are represented by an attorney, you have an emotionally not involved advocate who can speak on your behalf and potentially negotiate a parenting plan that is agreeable to all parties involved.

Represent Your Interests in Any Court Proceedings that May Occur

If a couple is unable to reach a decision regarding how they will divide their parenting time, a court will do it for them. The laws that govern how courts make time-sharing determinations are extremely complex and often are very confusing for people without legal training. In addition, the way that an argument is presented to a court can often have a significant impact on how a particular issue will be decided. Consequently, an experienced lawyer with experience representing clients in child custody disputes can often help secure a better outcome than parties who choose to represent themselves.

Advise You on the Relevant Law Applicable in Your Jurisdiction

People who understand the laws regarding child custody issues are generally better equipped to make decisions that will help them obtain a favorable result. Individuals who are anticipating a dispute regarding parenting time can take steps to strengthen their position prior to the issue being litigated. In cases where a dispute has already arisen, certain conduct may make it more or less likely for a parent to obtain the time-sharing arrangement they would like. In either case, understanding the relevant law can help parents conduct themselves in a way as to help them secure the parenting time to which they are legally entitled.

Contact a Tampa Family Law Attorney Today to Schedule a Free Consultation

Anyone who is involved in a child custody dispute or anticipates issues regarding custody should discuss their circumstances with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible. In many cases, an experienced family law attorney can have a significant impact on the outcome of a child custody determination. Please do not hesitate to call All Family Law Group in Tampa Bay at 813-816-2232 for a consultation at no charge.