Best Interest of the Child in Jacksonville, FL

Undergoing a divorce is never easy, but the process can be particularly contentious when children are involved. For this reason, most couples find it difficult to resolve the matters of their separation outside of court – as all facets of their marriage must be divided before the divorce can be finalized.

Although every couple is afforded the opportunity to make their own decisions about a workable child custody arrangement, it can prove to be a difficult task when either parent disagrees with the other. As such, it is usually common for two separating spouses to leave the decision up to a judge. In doing so, they would be leaving it up to the court to decide what type of custody arrangement would be most aligned with the best interest of the child.

What factors will contribute to the process of determining custody?

When it has been left up to the court to decide upon an appropriate child custody arrangement, they will look at several different factors. Above all else, however, they will make a decision based on what they believe will be in the best interest of the child. For example, if it is discovered that one parent has routinely neglected and/or abused their child, it is very unlikely that the judge would rule in favor of a joint custody arrangement or even allow them visitation rights.

Aside from these obvious red flags, however, the court will take the following factors into consideration:

• The wishes of each of the child's parents
• The mental and physical health of all parties involved
• The child's educations, emotional and physical needs
• The expressed wishes of the child
• Instances of abuse, neglect or domestic violence
• Instances of substance abuse or alcohol addiction

Ensure that Your Parental Rights are Protected

If you are in the process of legally ending your marriage, it is important to ensure that your rights as a parent are protected and taken into consideration by your former spouse or the court. In order to do so, it is highly recommended that you enlist the help of a Jacksonville divorce attorney from my firm.

By taking this very important step, you can trust that your best interests will be looked after – as well as those of your child – throughout the entire process of your divorce. Failing to equip yourself with legal representation could leave you at a severe disadvantage when it comes to the matter of your future custody arrangement.

Do not hesitate to contact my firm's Jacksonville divorce lawyer today. I will personally ensure that your parenting rights are upheld. We offer remote video & Zoom conferences as well