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Child Custody Nearly 30 Years of Experience on Your Side

Jacksonville Child Custody Attorney

Successfully Fighting for the Best Interests of Children

Charles E. Willmott, P.A., an established child custody lawyer in Jacksonville knows your children come first. That is why I offer my counsel and guidance during this precarious time. Children are a precious and significant part of any family. In most divorce cases involving children, both parents must maintain a high level of communication and relationship with their kids. Suppose you are involved in a complex custody battle. In that case, our firm recommends working with an experienced child custody lawyer in Jacksonville, at Charles E. Willmott, P.A..

There is too much at risk to attempt to do it alone -- having a seasoned attorney by your side will improve your chances of successfully obtaining possession of your children.

Why Choose Charles E. Willmott for Your Child Custody Case?

To speak with an experienced Jacksonville child custody lawyer, give us a call at (904) 849-5183 or contact us online today.

Understanding Different Types of Child Custody in Jacksonville

A court can establish three basic types of custody arrangements. These include physical, legal, and joint custody.

  • Physical custody: Physical custody refers to the right of a parent or guardian to have children live with them. 
    • This can be joint physical custody, where the children live with both parents for a significant amount of time, or sole physical custody, where the children primarily resides with one parent.
  • Legal custody: Legal custody refers to the right of a parent or guardian to make decisions regarding a child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, welfare, and religious practices. 
  • Joint custody: Joint custody refers to an arrangement where both parents share physical and/or legal guardianship of a children. 
    • In joint physical custody, the child spends significant time with both parents.
    • In contrast, in joint legal custodianship, parents have an equal say in making important decisions about the child's upbringing.

In addition to the three types of custody, a judge can establish different visitation rights through a court order or an agreement between the parents.

Visitation rights allow the non-custodial parent to spend time with the children. 

Factors Influencing Child Custody Decisions in Jacksonville, FL

When a court makes any decision regarding children, whether it is custody, 

support, or visitation, the determining factor should reflect the child's best interest.  Florida does not show any bias towards the gender of the parent. It is not considered solely a "mother or father" state. As a custody lawyer in Jacksonville, I am here to help you understand what courts use to decide the child's best interests, as many factors affect the determination.

For example, suppose the court grants sole custodianship. In that case, it is often given to the parent most likely to allow the child a relationship and contact with the other parent.

Key Factors in Child Custody Determinations:

  • Who is the primary caretaker of the child and his / her activities
  • Moral, mental and physical issues in regards to each parent
  • The child's personal preference (if the kid is old enough)
  • Any instances of abuse or domestic violence

Many courts desire that the divorcing couple work out these issues independently before having court interference. Parents should be able to decide if they can reach a mutual agreement. For optimal results, it is beneficial to enlist the help of a board-certified Jacksonville lawyer.

Strategies for Winning Child Custody in Jacksonville, FL

Regarding guardianship, many parents do not have their child's interest in mind but rather their own. Obtaining guardianship in Florida is entirely different than in any other state.  Florida law has changed from previous models to one that stresses the importance of parents sharing the responsibility for the minor.

This mutual responsibility refers to the sharing of commitment by both parents to care for the child's needs after 

a divorce.  This responsibility relates to providing for the child's needs and spending substantial time with them.

At What Age Can Children Decide Custody Preferences in Florida?

While there are unique and rare circumstances in which the kid may choose which parent to live with, most cases arrive at the same conclusion where the children may only have their choice once they are 18. The court will always decide a case that meets the child's best interests.

To speak with an experienced Jacksonville child custody lawyer, give us a call at (904) 849-5183 or contact us online today.

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  • "Charles Was A Godsend For Me Through My Divorce!"
    Charles was a Godsend for me through my divorce. He was so sweet and kind to me but very intimidating to the other party. he didn't play games, he was straight to the point, VERY PROFESIONAL.
  • "Dedicated Profession Who Speaks The Truth!"
    Charles Willmott is a dedicated professional who will speak the truth. Mr. Willmott is straightforward with his clients and is willing to listen. He can take what at times can be very messy situations and come up with a clear plan of action.
  • "Charles Is A Very Impressive Attorney!"
    I was a mess the first day I met with him; he immediately put my mind at ease and explained the different outcomes my divorce may have had. He's extremely knowledgeable, upfront, and honest.
  • "He Has Never Let Me Down!"
    I have been a client of Charles for almost nine years, and he has never let me down. He always told me what to expect and has been right every time.
  • "Charles Willmott Provided Superb Advice & Excellent Representation!"
    Charles Willmott provided superb advice and expert representation. He replied to every question very quickly and thoroughly.

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