Child Custody Lawyer Serving Orlando

In Florida, the court is most interested in the "best interest of the child." This is the determining standard for child custody cases. While a number of different factors will play into the judge's final decision, whenever possible, both parents will be involved in the child's upbringing to some degree. Sole custody is sometimes granted, but it is only considered as a last resort. If you have reason to believe that your child's safety and best interests would be compromised should his or her other parent be rewarded legal or physical custody, then it is crucial that you tell your lawyer about your concerns.

The two different kinds of custody are as follows:

• Legal custody (called "Parental Responsibility" in Florida) – responsibility for making decisions regarding school, healthcare, etc.
• Physical custody (called "Time-sharing" in Florida") – where the child will be physically present, whether sole or shared parenting.

Modifications to Child Custody

While it is certainly helpful to have a specific parenting plan in place, sometimes these need to be altered to accommodate significant changes in the parents' and children's lives. In order to modify the current agreement, you will need to show substantial change in circumstances, and the judge will have to make this finding and change the agreement or order. Our family lawyers know what it takes to achieve results, as we have helped numerous couples obtain the modifications that they needed in the past. We can work to do the same for you.

Protecting Parental Rights in Central Florida Since 1990

Richard A. Heller, P.A. has decades of experience helping clients throughout Central Florida achieve the resolutions they need and deserve. Family law litigation can be painful, but we understand that these are the cases that often have the most at stake and, therefore, require the most attentive representation. We are prepared to offer the advocacy and counsel your deserve.