​types of parental responsibility in florida

Learn how shared and sole parental responsibility shape child custody

When it comes to child custody in Florida, there are two types of parental responsibility – shared parental responsibility and sole parental responsibility. This is determined by what is in the best interest of the child.
 
Shared parental responsibility empowers both parties to have equal rights concerning all matters concerning the child. These can include a child’s health care, education and/or religious affiliation.
 
Sole parental responsibility empowers one party to have complete control and ultimate decision-making ability over all aspects of a child’s life. The court may order sole parental responsibility if specific issues are present.
 
How are the best interests of a child determined?
In determining which type of parental responsibility will be ordered, courts will consider many factors. These include (but aren’t limited to):

• The child’s age
• The child’s present living conditions
• The child’s schooling
• The child’s existing relationships with each parent
• The child’s preference (if appropriate)
• Each party’s ability to provide for the child’s needs
• Each parent’s overall health and wellness
• Each parent’s mental and moral character
• Each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs
• Each parent’s ability to nurture a relationship with the other parent

 
Questions you should consider
If you have a custody dispute in Central Florida – including Seminole, Volusia, Osceola, Orange and Lake counties – there are questions you should consider whether you’re establishing an initial parenting plan for a divorce or paternity action. These include:

• Are your child’s best interests being served with the current parenting plan?
• Do you believe your child would benefit by having more time with you?
• Can you provide a more stable environment for the child?

 
Raising children today is hard, and the emotional strain and stress of a dispute with the other parent can make it harder. The family law attorneys at Filler & Hedum Law in Longwood, Seminole County, are experienced in protecting the rights of parents and their children through the sometimes complex and messy process of divorce and paternity.

FREE CONSULTATION AND CHILD CUSTODY CASE REVIEW

​​To learn more about types of parental responsibility in Florida, call Filler & Hedum Law today for a free consultation and child custody case review. Samuel Filler or Kelly Hedum will meet with you personally to discuss your case, answer your questions and offer valuable insight into your case at no cost to you. We’ve helped clients in Sanford, Longwood, Casselberry, Altamonte Springs, Oveido, Orlando, Winter Springs, DeLand and other Central Florida towns protect and secure their financial needs and future.
Filler & Hedum---There When You Need  'Em
407-772-0700.