Brandon Child Custody Attorney
We’ve Got You Covered!
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.
We've Got You Covered
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
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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.
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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.
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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
CALL OR CLICK TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION!
Let's start getting to know each other. The next step is a no-cost initial consultation.
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
The Right Attorneys For You.
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(813) 902-3576
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
Easy To Find And Convenient Hours
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
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Factors Shaping Child Custody Outcomes
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Key Questions For A Custody Lawyer Consult
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Reshaping Custody When Situations Shift
Custody decisions impacting children require occasional changes when environments or needs shift over time. Understand how modifying entrenched custody agreements works.
Harmonious Co-Parenting: Finding Balance After Divorce
Discover key co-parenting strategies post-divorce, focusing on effective custody arrangements and communication for your child’s well-being and growth.
How to Help Your Kids Through a Divorce
Gain insights from a divorce attorney on helping your kids navigate divorce smoothly, focusing on emotional well-being and legal protection.
Co-Parenting Tools: Navigating Custody Digitally
In the age of technology, co-parenting is evolving. Dive into the world of digital tools that are reshaping custody management, making collaboration between parents seamless
Understanding Split Custody
Understanding ‘Split Custody’ can be pivotal for families navigating the complexities of custody battles. Dive deep into when it’s applicable, the factors that courts weigh, and the value of seeking expert legal assistance.
Holiday Custody: Balancing Celebration and Harmony
Navigating child custody amidst holiday festivities presents unique challenges. Dive into effective strategies that prioritize children’s emotional well-being, maintain cherished traditions, and introduce new routines, making the season memorable and harmonious for all involved.