Child
custody and support, child visitation, and guardianship issues are the
thorniest part of every divorce case because the welfare of our juvenile
citizens is the our top priority as a nation. Each state in the country enacted
laws to ensure that members of the juvenile population caught in the middle of
divorce settlements are protected. In Tampa and the rest of Florida, issues
related to child custody and support, child visitation, as well as guardianship
are resolved in accordance with the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and
Enforcement Act.
Child
Custody and Support 101
Putting it
simply, child custody refers to the care, control, and maintenance of a minor. Child
custody and support laws in Florida dictate who gets legal custody and physical
custody of the juvenile. The parent granted with legal custody makes the
educational, religious, medical, and disciplinary decisions for the child. On
the other hand, the parent granted physical custody decides on where a child
will live. Laws on legal and physical custody also apply for adults applying
for juvenile guardianship.
Types of Custody Arrangements in Florida
Child custody and support can be awarded to one
parent, also known as sole custody, or to both parents also known as joint
custody. One parent gets legal and physical custody of a child in sole custody
while both parents share legal and physical child custody in joint custody. In cases
of joint child custody and support, however, one parent is named the primary
joint custodian while the other parent is granted child visitation. This is so the
child has a primary residence, school, etc. which are necessary for some legal
documents.
Guidelines for Child Custody
and Support, Child Visitation, and Guardianship for Kids under the Juvenile
Category
Child custody and support laws in Florida include
a set of guidelines that must be strictly followed when
determining the amount of money allotted to raising a child. Courts generally
look at the joint income of the parents, as well as the number of children
involved in the case. There are instances where courts allocate parts of the
parents’ assets to a trust fund for education or other forms of support to ensure
the welfare of the children. Parents are required to pay child support until
the child either finishes high school or turns 19 years old.
For more questions regarding child custody and
support, child visitation, and guardianship, consult with a family lawyer in
your area.
Nancy McRoberts
Parham, P.A.
210 N. Pierce St
Tampa, FL 33602
Tampa, FL 33602
813-228-0219
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