When Sarah and Michael were going through their divorce, their greatest concern was not dividing up their property; it was their two small children. They knew that whatever the court ruled would shape their children’s lives for years to come. Like most parents in Florida, they had no idea how to guarantee their children’s future in such uncertainty and decided to seek the services of a family attorney.
There are many families with experiences similar to that of Sarah and Michael in Florida. “A good family attorney guides parents step by step, placing paramount importance on children’s rights and interests,” says Attorney Samah T. Abukhodeir of The Florida Probate & Family Law Firm. They advocate fiercely so that families can achieve stability and peace, even during a divorce.
This article explains how a family attorney can help in securing your children’s future during a divorce.
Custody and Time-Sharing Agreements
In Florida, family courts prioritize the child’s well-being while determining custody and time-sharing arrangements. They check their daily routine, the relationship between the two parents, and the continuity of education and healthcare. Therefore, an attorney can help structure clear arrangements that allow for equal access for both parents, while providing a stable and loving home for the child.
If disagreements occur, the attorney can work to resolve things in a way that is most beneficial to the child’s future physical and emotional well-being.
Child Support
The needs of the children should be met first, regardless of the parent they reside. Meeting the continuous needs of the children is a key consideration during a divorce, and that is what child support addresses. Florida child support is computed based on the earnings of both parents and the number of children.
Considering that such calculations are not always as straightforward as they appear, a family lawyer can help. They ensure the important details of child support are reviewed and addressed. They can also follow up on support order enforcement or seek court intervention to modify child support arrangements when life circumstances change.
Guardianship: Preparing for the Unexpected
No parent would imagine a day when they will no longer be able to take care of their child. As such, preparing for the unexpected is one of the most loving acts you can perform for your kids. This involves having someone whom you trust to take care of your child in case something happens to you. This way, you are not leaving your child’s welfare to fate.
A Florida family lawyer can assist with document preparation and facilitate the legal process to prepare your preferred guardian for their role. This preparation gives you peace of mind and safeguards your child against future uncertainties.
Adoption and Building a Family
Adoption is an exciting consideration for many families, but it is not without its challenges. An attorney can ensure that every process and paper necessary for the adoption is filed in line with Florida’s requirements. They can also be your representatives before the judge, helping you facilitate the completion of parental rights. That way, they ensure the adoption process protects everyone’s rights, especially that of the child.
Problem-Solving with Compassion
Not every case needs to be litigated. Mediation and arbitration are effective strategies that allow families to settle cases without considering litigation. A family attorney knows that these strategies can help you avoid litigation and ensure an amicable resolution. The result is that it keeps your decisions about your child’s future under your control instead of the judge’s.
Post-Divorce Modifications and Enforcement
Even after the divorce, things do change. You might change careers or locations, or learn that your ex is not following court orders. A family attorney can assist in filing changes in custody, visitation, or child support to reflect your new reality and better protect the child’s interests.
Conclusion
A family attorney in Florida can guide you to make smart choices regarding your children, even when going through a divorce. Their guidance is not only helpful for now but for the future as well. With the right attorney, you can ensure that your children are protected and provided for at all times, which is why you should contact one today.
Also Read: Key Qualities That Make a Difference When Choosing a Divorce Attorney
