Brandon Child Custody Attorney
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Our Promise
Providing enthusiastic legal counsel with confidence, integrity, and compassion.
We promise to protect you and your family through life’s many legal challenges.
Our focus is on your family.
When your family law needs are divorce, custody, child support, alimony, or custody related, we’ve got you covered.
When your family law needs are Estate Planning, Probate, civil lawsuits, or even criminal matters, we’ve got you covered.
We promise caring and vigorous legal representation while respecting your time and wallet. You deserve the highest quality representation possible, and we offer that legal support and personal attention.
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With These Family Law & Divorce Services
Divorce Attorney
Child Custody
Child Support
Alimony
Military Divorce
Collaborative Divorce
Same-sex Divorce
Child Custody
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are custody decisions (parenting plans) binding? Can they be altered?
Parenting plans become enforceable when issued and remain in effect until modified. You can petition the court to modify the parenting plan to adjust for unanticipated, material, and substantial change(s) in circumstances that no longer serve the children’s best interests.
- What exactly is a Parenting Plan?
Instead of traditional legal and physical custody definitions, Florida adopted a parenting plan and time-sharing schedule. The parenting plan specifies how the parents divide decision-making
authority and responsibilities. For example, the plan sets who will be responsible for the child’s education, health care, and extracurricular activities.A parenting plan also specifies where the child will live and the time the children spend with each parent. Again, because each family’s needs and circumstances are unique, time-sharing schedules are flexible. But, again, the facts of the case determine the timeline.
- What is the Child's Best Interest Standard?
In Florida, courts consider time-sharing under the best interests of the child standard. Therefore, custody decisions are made by courts based on what is best for the child.
These factors could include the following:
- The child’s age
- The quality of the child’s existing relationship with the parents
- The ability of either parent to provide a stable, safe environment
- Which parent is more likely to encourage the child’s ongoing relationship with the other
parent
Judges have wide latitude in determining how much weight to give to each factor.
Debunking Florida Child Custody & Timesharing Myths
Children can chose which parent to live with.
Children, especially young children, are not mature enough to make the decision of which parent they should be with in the eyes of the court. The reasonable preference of the child (especially older children) is one of many factors that the courts may consider in deciding timesharing. The number one factor, is always, “What is in the best interest of the children”.
Women have an advantage over men in custody.
Florida law expressly states that there is no advantage to custody based on gender. Custody is no longer a current legal term. Today the courts speak to Timesharing. Factors governing Timesharing between parents are typically guided by one overarching factor, the child’s best interest.
Courts automatically order a child time-sharing plan.
Child time-sharing arrangements are not required by law. The top priority is to protect the child’s best interests, meaning each parent’s current and prior relationship with the child, as well as any factors that could endanger the child, will be considered. If a mutual agreement can’t be reached, one can petition the court for a court-ordered Timesharing plan. The goal is to foster a close, loving bond between the child and both parents and to remain in each other’s lives.
BRANDON LEGAL GROUP, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED (813) 902-3576
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We'll review your situation. At the same time, you have a chance to evaluate Brandon Legal Group without investing a penny.
From there, we'll formulate a legal strategy and provide you with a transparent estimate of fees to protect you and resolve your legal situation.
Case Study: Because legal issues rarely stand their own
We were able to have the spouse’s accounts frozen until he complied with the original terms of the Marital Settlement Agreement.
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WHO WE ARE
Full-service family law law firm serving the greater Brandon and Tampa area.
Lower your stress volume. When you place your family's legal matter in Brandon Legal Group's attorneys' hands, you are putting it in the hands of professionals deeply committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome for your case and your family.
Whether divorce, Estate, Probate, or any of the legal challenges families face, We've Got You Covered.
OUR PHILOSOPHY
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Brandon Legal Group
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Brandon Legal Group - Service Overview
We've Got You Covered
Family Law & Divorce
Alimony
Child Custody
Mediation
Estate Planning
Child Support
Some matters in Criminal, DUI, Bankruptcy, Estate planning, Personal Injury, VA Benefits, and Workers’ Compensation may be referred to an outside attorney
Meet Our Attorneys
Ingrid Hooglander
In 2008 after gaining years of experience under the watchful eyes of her predecessors, Ms. Hooglander opened her own private practice that has grown into what Brandon Legal Group is today.
Her weight lifting and Kick Boxing training contribute to a reputation as a "force of nature" in both her personal life and her presence in the court room.
Luke Mattson
Mr. Mattson found his niche in family law and has focused his practice in that area since 2000. In particular, Luke often handles matters involving divorce, timesharing, parenting plans, child support, alimony, paternity, and civil domestic violence.
Mr. Mattson might look like he’s all business, but you'd be surprised to discover the incredible fun loving attitude he brings to the practice. When outside the courtroom, Mr. Mattson can often be found watching Lightning games or riding his bike around downtown Tampa.
Brandon Legal Group More Client Reviews:
Ingrid is a gifted attorney with significant subject matter experience in family law matters. She has a ton of experience and is an expert in this practice area. She is a hard worker and puts clients first. She is able to gain exceptional results for her clients. Without hesitation I endorse Ingrid.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
(813) 902-3576
Brandon Legal Group
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Hours
Monday 8:00 AM-5 PM
Tuesday 8:00 AM-5 PM
Wednesday 8:00 AM-5 PM
Thursday 8:00 AM-5 PM
Friday 8:00 AM-5 PM
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
(Closed Daily from 12 - 1 PM for lunch)
Or Call Us Now At (813) 902-3576
Managing Child Custody When a Parent is Behind Bars
Navigating child custody is challenging, especially when one parent is incarcerated. This article provides insights into legal implications, emotional support, and financial resources.
What to Expect at a Custody Hearing
Learn what to expect in a custody trial, including key factors courts consider, types of custody, and special procedures in Florida like the “Best Interest of the Child” standard.
The Crucial Roles of Custody Specialists
Child custody cases are emotionally taxing and legally complex. Explore how a network of professionals, from family law attorneys to child welfare workers, guide the process to serve the child’s best interest
Teenage Rebellion and Its Impact on Custody & Visitation
Teenage rebellion in the midst of custody battles requires sensitive handling. Learn strategies to bridge the gap & promote healthy parent-teen dynamics.
Children’s Rights in Custody Battles: Should Kids Have a Say?
Children’s rights in custody disputes are a complex issue, with their voices often considered based on age, maturity, and the specific laws of the jurisdiction. In places like Florida, where no set age determines a child’s right of say, the focus on the child’s best interests guides the process. From age considerations to the appointment of child representatives, this article dives into the various facets of children’s rights in custody battles and how an experienced custody attorney can advocate for both the child’s and parents’ views
Guide to Florida’s New Child Timesharing Laws
Florida’s new child timesharing law CS/HB 1301 represents a pivotal shift, impacting all divorce and family law cases involving children. This comprehensive overview covers key provisions and implications, frequently asked questions, and fictional examples to illustrate the application of these new laws
Love Beyond Borders: Out-of-State Custody
Child custody across different states presents unique challenges that require careful legal and emotional consideration. This guide explores the complex terrain of out-of-state custody agreements, the vital role of custody attorneys, innovative visitation methods, and offers fictional examples to illustrate real-world scenarios. Whether you’re a parent or legal professional, this comprehensive overview provides essential insights into ensuring the child’s best interests
Navigating Child Custody with Surrogacy
Surrogacy brings hope to many prospective parents but also ushers in many legal considerations, especially around child custody. This article delves into the legal labyrinth of surrogacy, from determining legal parenthood to international laws, and the vital role a family law attorney plays in guiding parents-to-be through this complex process.
Divorce and How it Can Affect Taxes
Divorce, while emotionally taxing, also brings complex financial implications, particularly in tax. From filing status changes, asset division, spousal and child support, to implications for retirement accounts and legal fees, understanding tax implications is a crucial part of a divorce process. Engaging a tax professional can be invaluable in navigating these complexities and ensuring fair financial outcomes
Mission Possible: Military Custody Challenges
Military families face unique hurdles in custody and visitation arrangements, from deployments to frequent relocations. Understanding key considerations, protective laws like SCRA and UDPCVA, and the significance of a Family Care Plan can help military parents navigate these complexities, always keeping the child’s best interests at heart.
Guardians of Hope: Custody in the Foster Care System
Dive into the complex world of child custody within the foster care system, understanding the legal and emotional aspects and the impact on all parties involved.
Navigating Grandparents’ Rights in Child Custody Cases
In child custody cases, the rights of grandparents play a significant role. This article explores the legal aspects, visitation rights, and the impact on family dynamics
