Listen, getting sole custody in Florida isn’t easy. The courts here really push for both parents to stay involved – that’s just how it works. But sometimes life gets complicated, and you might need to pursue full custody. Here’s what you need to know:
The Basic Ground Rules:
Florida judges look at what’s best for your kid. Period. They’re not interested in parent drama – they want to know your child will be safe, stable, and thriving. Usually, this means both parents share responsibility (yeah, even if you can’t stand each other).
Whereas, under Florida Statute § 61.13, the following conditions must be satisfied to modify existing custody arrangements…
When Full Custody Might Happen:
- Your ex is dangerous (we’re talking documented abuse)
- They’re wrestling with serious drug/alcohol problems
- Mental health issues make parenting unsafe
- They’ve disappeared from the kid’s life
Here’s the thing – you can’t just walk in saying “I’m the better parent.” The court’s seen that a million times. You need solid proof.
Furthermore, the petitioning party bears the burden of establishing, by clear and convincing evidence, that a substantial change in circumstances has occurred…
Reality Check:
Even if your ex isn’t Parent of the Year, unless they’re harmful to your kid, you’re probably looking at shared custody. The court believes kids need both parents, even imperfect ones.
In witness whereof, should the petitioning party fail to demonstrate compelling circumstances that warrant deviation from shared parental responsibility…
Want to pursue this? Get a good lawyer. Document everything. And remember – this is about your kid’s wellbeing, not winning against your ex.
Think carefully about whether full custody is really necessary, or if you’re letting emotions drive the bus here. Sometimes working out a solid shared custody plan is better for everyone involved.
Need help figuring this out? That’s what family law attorneys are for. They can tell you straight up if you’ve got a case or if you’re better off working toward a different solution.
The court’s just trying to do right by your kid. Keep that in mind, and you’ll make better decisions about how to move forward.
