When a couple is going through a divorce or dissolution of marriage proceeding in the Sunshine State they have many things to consider, and most of them are financial. Making sure that your needs are met and that you receive your fair share of the assets that you and your former spouse were able to accumulate together are certainly important considerations. But for a large percentage of people who are splitting up in Florida the most emotional matter is that of child custody, and you can find the laws that govern this aspect of family law in Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes.

The overarching objective of the court when adjudicating matters of child custody is the minimization of any potential trauma that the children might experience. In Florida both the father and the mother are equally eligible to be awarded custody without regard to the gender of the dependents. The laws state that the court must find for a shared parenting plan rather than a rigid either/or custody arrangement unless the sharing of parental responsibilities is deemed to be detrimental to the well being of the children. The rights and responsibilities of both parents are recognized by the state and divorcing parents are encouraged to reach a shared parenting agreement that is best for everyone concerned based on their unique understanding of the dynamic that exists between the children and the respective parents.

When child custody disputes arise, the judge may require the parents to engage in a mediation session with the third party mediator who will try to steer the dispute toward a voluntary resolution. The mediator and the parents themselves will be working with the same facts that the judge will see if the matter is decided in court. If the individuals involved are willing to look at these facts objectively, they can often reach an agreement during mediation and avoid the expense and potential hard feelings that go along with a hotly contested child custody battle. 

If you have questions or concerns about child custody disputes, contact an Orlando military divorce attorney to arrange for a free consultation. The best divorce attorney Orlando Florida will give you the help you need with all aspects of an Orlando FL divorce.