Going through a divorce or separation is difficult, but matters become even more complex when children are involved. Child custody trials can be an emotionally draining experience for both parents and children. For the unfamiliar, the legal process can be daunting, but understanding what to expect can provide some peace of mind. In this article, we will give an overall view of what a custody trial involves and delve into the specifics of Florida custody trial procedures.
Introduction to Custody Hearings
Custody hearings determine the living arrangement for the child or children involved in a divorce or separation case. During the trial, each parent presents their case for why they should be awarded primary custody or, in some instances, why joint custody would be the most beneficial arrangement for the child.
Factors Considered by the Court
The court considers various factors to determine what is in the best interest of the child. These may include:
– The emotional, physical, and mental stability of each parent
– The ability of each parent to provide a stable home environment
– The child’s relationship with each parent
– Any history of abuse, neglect, or criminal activity
– The child’s age, preference, and adjustment to their current living situation
Types of Custody
There are different types of custody arrangements:
Sole Custody: One parent has exclusive physical and legal custody of the child.
Joint Custody: Both parents share physical and/or legal custody.
Legal Custody: The right to make important decisions regarding the child’s education, medical care, etc.
Physical Custody: Where the child will live most of the time.
The Custody Trial Process
A custody trial typically follows these steps:
- Filing of Motion: One parent initiates the custody battle by filing a motion.
- Response: The other parent must respond to the motion, typically within 21 days.
- Temporary Orders: Courts may issue temporary orders dictating custody arrangements until the trial.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange information and documents relevant to the case.
- Pre-Trial Conference: An opportunity for both parties to discuss settlement options.
- Trial: Both parents present their case in front of a judge, who then decides on the custody arrangement.
- Judgment: The judge issues a final ruling, which can be appealed within a specific timeframe.
Custody Trial Procedures in Florida
Florida has specific guidelines and rules governing custody trials. Here are some key elements:
Best Interest of the Child Standard
Florida law emphasizes that the best interest of the child is paramount. The state encourages shared parental responsibilities unless it’s detrimental to the child. The “Best Interest of the Child” standard in Florida is the overarching principle that guides court decisions on matters of child custody, visitation, and parenting plans. This standard is codified under Florida Statutes Section 61.13. The statute provides a detailed list of factors that the court should consider when determining what arrangement would best serve the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs. Some of the specific factors enumerated under the statute include:
- The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to facilitate and encourage a close and continuing parent-child relationship, to honor the time-sharing schedule, and to be reasonable when changes are required.
- The anticipated division of parental responsibilities after the litigation, including the extent to which parental responsibilities will be delegated to third parties.
- The demonstrated capacity and disposition of each parent to determine, consider, and act upon the needs of the child as opposed to the needs or desires of the parent.
- The length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity.
- The geographic viability of the parenting plan, with special attention paid to the needs of school-age children and the amount of time to be spent traveling to effectuate the parenting plan.
- The moral fitness of the parents.
- The mental and physical health of the parents.
- The child’s school, home, and community record.
- The reasonable preference of the child, if the court deems the child to be of sufficient intelligence, understanding, and experience to express a preference.
- Evidence of domestic violence, sexual violence, child abuse, child abandonment, or child neglect.
- The tasks customarily performed by each parent and the division of parental responsibilities before the litigation, including those related to the care and daily needs of the child.
- Any other factors that are relevant to the determination of a specific parenting plan, including the time-sharing schedule.
By considering these factors, among others, the court aims to construct a living arrangement and a parenting plan that will foster a nurturing, stable environment for the child. Given the complexities involved and the high stakes for all family members, understanding the “Best Interest of the Child” standard as per Florida law is essential. If you’re facing a custody dispute, it’s advisable to consult a Florida family law attorney who is familiar with these standards and can guide you through the legal process accordingly.
Parenting Plan
A Parenting Plan is a written agreement that outlines how parents will share and handle responsibilities regarding the upbringing of their children following a divorce or separation. The plan typically covers a range of topics including time-sharing schedules, decision-making responsibilities, holiday and vacation plans, transportation logistics, and communication guidelines between parents, ensuring that the child’s day-to-day needs and developmental stages are taken into account. Florida requires parents to create a Parenting Plan, outlining details like time-sharing schedules, holiday plans, and transportation arrangements.
Relocation Restrictions
Florida law makes it difficult for a parent to relocate with the child without the other parent’s consent or court approval.
Certainly, the issue of relocation is a critical one in Florida child custody cases and is governed by Florida Statutes Section 61.13001. Relocation is defined as a change in the location of the principal residence of a parent or other person from their principal place of residence at the time of the last order establishing or modifying time-sharing, or at the time of filing the pending action to establish or modify time-sharing. The change of location must be at least 50 miles away from that residence and for at least 60 consecutive days not including a temporary absence from the principal residence for purposes of vacation, education, or the provision of health care for the child.
Required Procedure for Relocation
If a parent wishes to relocate, they generally have to follow one of these procedures:
- Mutual Agreement: If both parents agree to the relocation, they can submit a written agreement to the court that outlines the time-sharing schedule and describes any transportation arrangements related to the visitation.
- Petition to Relocate: If both parties do not agree on the relocation, the parent seeking to relocate must file a petition to relocate with the court and serve it to the other parent. The petition must include details such as the new address, the date of the intended move, the reasons for relocating, and a proposed visitation schedule.
Objections and Court Considerations
The non-relocating parent has 20 days to object to the relocation petition. Failure to object within this time usually results in the court granting the relocation request, provided it is in the child’s best interests. If an objection is filed, a hearing will be scheduled. During the hearing, the court will consider several factors to determine whether the relocation is in the child’s best interest. Some of these factors include:
- The child’s relationship with both parents
- The age and needs of the child and the likely impact the relocation will have on them
- The ability to preserve the relationship with the non-relocating parent
- Whether the relocation will enhance the general quality of life for both the parent seeking the relocation and the child.
- Reasons for and against the move from both parents
Burden of Proof
The parent wishing to relocate has the burden of proving that the move is in the best interest of the child. If they succeed in doing so, the burden shifts to the non-relocating parent to show that the proposed relocation is not in the child’s best interest.
Understanding the specifics of Florida’s relocation restrictions and procedures is crucial for any parent involved in a custody case in the state. Failure to adhere to these guidelines can result in contempt of court, modification of the custody arrangement, or other penalties. Therefore, if you’re contemplating a move, it’s essential to consult with a knowledgeable Florida family law attorney to guide you through the legal intricacies of your situation.
Expert Witnesses and Child’s Preference
In Florida, courts often consult expert witnesses like child psychologists. In addition to child psychologists, educational consultants may be called upon to assess the child’s academic needs and how each parent’s proposed living arrangement would affect educational continuity and success. Additionally, financial advisors or forensic accountants may be consulted to provide an in-depth analysis of each parent’s financial stability and capability to provide for the child, helping the court to better understand the economic aspects of potential custody arrangements.
The following is a DRAMATIZATION AND NOT AN ACTUAL EVENT: Emily and Mark were married for 10 years and had two children. Emily filed for divorce and sought sole custody, alleging that Mark’s erratic work schedule and lack of involvement in the children’s lives made her the better choice. During the Florida custody trial, both parents submitted their Parenting Plans. Emily’s attorney called expert witnesses who testified that Mark’s irregular hours were detrimental to the children’s stability. Mark countered by presenting evidence that he had taken steps to alter his work schedule to be more involved in his children’s lives. In accordance with Florida law, the judge also took into account the children’s preferences. The older child, aged 12, expressed a desire to live primarily with Emily but wanted to visit Mark regularly. The younger child was too young to express a preference. Ultimately, the judge awarded joint custody but granted Emily primary physical custody, considering it to be in the best interest of the children. Mark was granted visitation rights and was actively involved in legal decisions regarding the children.
Conclusion
Navigating a custody trial can be overwhelming, but understanding the procedures and what to expect can make the process more manageable. While the specifics can vary from state to state, the end goal is always to secure the best possible living situation for the child involved. In Florida, this involves adhering to state-specific guidelines and requirements like creating a Parenting Plan and considering expert opinions. If you are facing a custody trial in Florida, consult an experienced attorney to guide you through the complex legal landscape. A custody attorney can provide crucial advice tailored to your individual circumstances, helping you to prepare the strongest possible case for the well-being of your children.
