Child custody decisions in Florida determine how major aspects of a child’s life are handled, including parenting time and decision-making authority. At The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C., we represent parents across Florida in establishing and modifying custody arrangements with a focus on protecting both parental rights and the child’s best interests. Our firm focuses exclusively on family law, allowing us to navigate Florida statutes and court standards with precision. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we work to create clear, practical, and enforceable parenting plans that support your child’s stability and your role in their life.
Florida no longer uses the term “custody.” Instead, courts address parental responsibility and timesharing when determining how parents will share rights and responsibilities after separation or divorce.
Parenting matters are governed by Section 61.13, Florida Statutes, and all decisions must be based on the best interests of the child.
Child custody disputes are often the most emotionally sensitive component of a divorce or paternity case. Strategic planning and careful presentation of evidence are critical.
The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. represents parents in custody and timesharing matters throughout Southwest Florida and the greater Tampa Bay region, including but not limited to, Sarasota County, Manatee County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Lee County, Hillsborough County, and Pinellas County. Every consultation is conducted directly with a licensed Divorce and Matrimonial Law Attorney, not a salesperson, not a case manager, and not an intake team.
Parental responsibility refers to decision-making authority regarding major aspects of a child’s life, including:
Florida law presumes shared parental responsibility unless the court finds that shared decision-making would be detrimental to the child.
In certain circumstances, courts may award:
Timesharing refers to the schedule that determines when a child spends time with each parent.
Florida courts encourage frequent and continuing contact with both parents when appropriate.
Timesharing schedules may include:
Each case is determined individually.
Florida courts evaluate numerous statutory factors when determining parenting arrangements, including:
The focus is always on the child’s welfare, not parental preference.
During a pending divorce or paternity case, courts may enter temporary orders establishing parental responsibility and timesharing until final judgment.
Emergency relief may be available if a child’s safety is at risk.
Custody (parental responsibility and timesharing) may be modified upon a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances and when modification serves the child’s best interests.
Is Florida a 50/50 custody state?
Florida presumes equal timesharing may be in a child’s best interests, but each case is evaluated individually.
Can a parent lose parental responsibility?
Yes, if the court finds shared decision-making would be detrimental to the child.
What if the other parent violates the parenting plan?
Enforcement actions may be filed with the court.
If you are facing a custody or timesharing dispute, experienced legal representation can help protect your parental rights and your child’s stability.
Contact The Law Office of Tiffany M. Hughes, P.C. to schedule a confidential consultation regarding your Florida custody case.
Call us at (773) 893-0228.
123 W Main Street, Suite 400 Chicago, IL 60601
1201 6th Ave W STE 100 Unit #677 Bradenton, Florida 34205
