Orlando Child Custody Attorney — Protecting Your Parental Rights and Your Child’s Future

Child custody matters are among the most emotionally intense legal cases anyone can face. When parents separate or divorce, determining where children will live, who will make major decisions for them, and how much time each parent spends with them requires careful legal navigation. In Florida, custody is divided into parental responsibility (decision-making) and time-sharing (physical time with the child). Understanding the difference — and fighting effectively for both — requires an experienced Orlando family law attorney.

At Grace Law PA, Attorney Grace Flores approaches child custody cases with both compassion and tenacity. She understands that you are not just fighting a legal battle — you are fighting for your children. She advocates fiercely to ensure parenting arrangements reflect the best interests of your child and protect your rights as a parent.

Florida Child Custody Law

Florida uses the term ‘parental responsibility’ instead of ‘custody’ and ‘time-sharing’ instead of ‘visitation.’ Under Florida Statute §61.13, the court’s primary consideration in all custody matters is the best interests of the child. Florida strongly favors shared parental responsibility (joint custody) unless it is found to be detrimental to the child.

The court evaluates more than 20 statutory factors when determining time-sharing, including the demonstrated capacity of each parent to facilitate a close relationship between the child and the other parent, the moral fitness of each parent, the mental and physical health of each parent, the child’s school and community ties, the child’s preference (if of sufficient maturity), and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

Parenting Plans in Florida

Every Florida custody case requires a Parenting Plan — a comprehensive document that specifies the time-sharing schedule, how parents will communicate, how major decisions will be made, and how disputes will be resolved. Grace Law PA drafts detailed, forward-thinking Parenting Plans that anticipate potential conflicts and protect your parental rights for years to come.

Modifying a Custody Order in Florida

Once a custody order is entered, it can be modified if there has been a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the original order was entered, and if the modification is in the best interests of the child. Examples include a parent relocating, a significant change in a parent’s work schedule, or concerns about a child’s safety.

Frequently Asked Questions — Child Custody in Florida

Does Florida favor mothers over fathers in custody cases?

No. Florida law explicitly prohibits gender-based preference in custody determinations. Both parents start on equal footing, and the outcome is determined solely by the best interests of the child and the evidence presented.

At what age can a child choose which parent to live with in Florida?

Florida does not have a specific age at which a child can choose their own living arrangement. However, courts do consider the reasonable preference of older, more mature children as one of many factors in determining time-sharing.

What happens if my co-parent violates the custody order?

Violations of a court-ordered Parenting Plan are taken seriously in Florida. The aggrieved parent can file a motion for contempt, which can result in make-up time-sharing, modification of the plan, or sanctions against the violating parent.

Can I relocate with my child after a custody order is in place?

If you plan to move more than 50 miles away for more than 60 consecutive days, Florida’s relocation statute (Florida Statute §61.13001) requires either written agreement from the other parent or court approval. Relocating without permission can result in serious legal consequences.

Contact Grace Law PA Today — Free Case Evaluation

If you are facing this situation in Orlando or Central Florida, do not wait. Attorney Grace Flores offers free consultations and fights for the results you deserve — in English and Spanish.

📞 (407) 777-4994 | 33 E Robinson St, Suite 207, Orlando, FL 32801 | Se habla español