Introducción Los padres a menudo se sienten abrumados y ansiosos por calcular la manutención de los hijos en el sistema legal de Florida. Es posible […]
Feb 28, 2026
Practice Area
Child
Custody
When parents separate, questions about custody become the most emotionally charged part of the process. Who will make important decisions about your child's future? How much time will you each have together? At The Law Office of John P. Sherman, we understand that custody disputes aren't just legal matters, they're personal. Our role is to guide you through Florida's complex custody system with clarity, compassion, and strategic legal advocacy focused on protecting your parental rights.
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Legal Overview
How Does Child Custody Work
Florida courts approach custody, legally known as time-sharing, with the child’s best interests as the top priority. Judges evaluate each parent’s ability to provide stability, cooperation, and emotional support before approving a Parenting Plan. Below are key factors that define how custody works in Florida.
Parenting Plans
Each custody case begins with a Parenting Plan that outlines how decisions will be made and how time will be divided between parents. The plan must address schooling, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and holiday schedules, all centered on the child's well-being.
Shared vs. Sole Responsibility
Florida courts usually favor shared parental responsibility so both parents can make major decisions. Sole responsibility is only granted when one parent's actions, like neglect or abuse, threaten the child's safety.
Time-Sharing Schedules
Time-sharing determines where the child lives and how visitation is divided. Judges assess factors like school proximity, parents' work schedules, and the child's age to create a fair and practical schedule.
Modifications & Enforcement
Custody orders can change if there's a significant and unexpected shift in circumstances. When one parent violates the Parenting Plan, courts can enforce compliance through legal remedies.
Services / Approach
Legal Support for Child Custody Cases
Child custody cases are deeply personal and often emotionally charged. Our firm provides steady, strategic guidance from start to finish, ensuring you understand your rights, your options, and what to expect at every stage.
- Filing or contesting custody petitions.
- Requesting emergency or temporary custody orders.
- Modifying or enforcing existing orders.
- Protecting custody, housing, and parental rights.
"Our approach centers on protection and fairness, combining compassionate counsel with firm legal representation to resolve even the most high-stakes custody matters effectively."
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody
How do courts determine child custody in Florida?
Florida courts base custody (time-sharing) decisions on the child's best interests. Judges evaluate each parent's ability to provide stability, emotional support, and cooperation. They also consider factors like school continuity, home environment, and any history of abuse or neglect before finalizing a Parenting Plan.
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If a child custody dispute is underway, your next step matters.
Whether you're seeking fair time-sharing or defending your parental rights, we're here to protect your family's future and secure the strongest possible outcome.
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