Boca Raton Paternity & Child Custody Lawyer

Divorce can be a challenging process for most individuals. For parents, the stakes are even higher as concerns naturally arise about how their relationship with their child may be permanently impacted. Disagreements between parents over how to protect their children from the emotional challenges of family separation are common, and the family court system can seem daunting. All of these factors can contribute to significant stress and contention.

At Haber Legal, we understand your fears, anxieties, and uncertainties. Our child custody attorneys in Boca Raton have resolved hundreds of cases involving divorce, custody, and child-related matters for clients over more than a decade.

Arrange for a personalized consultation with our Boca Raton child custody attorney by emailing us via our Contact Page.

Understanding Child Custody in Florida

Child custody is an issue that must be resolved between divorcing or separating parents, as well as between never-married parents in paternity cases. When you work with a child custody lawyer in Boca Raton, you will learn that judges decide custody based on what is in the child’s best interest. Parents may reach an agreement outside of court or resolve their custody matters through litigation. Regardless of the method, the judge will review the agreement to ensure it aligns with the child's best interests based on the specific facts and circumstances of your case.

Custody law in Florida is grounded in the belief that maintaining a continuing, frequent, and meaningful relationship with both parents benefits children most during such significant changes in their lives. Courts do not favor one parent over the other; mothers and fathers hold equal rights in custody matters. Only when a parent has a history of domestic abuse, neglect, consistent substance abuse, or criminal behavior will the court consider limiting or denying custody rights. An experienced custody attorney in Boca Raton can help you understand how these standards apply to your unique situation.

Timesharing & Parental Responsibility in FL

Florida law has moved away from the term “custody,” now using “timesharing” and “parental responsibility” to better reflect modern parenting roles. Timesharing involves determining the schedule of overnights a child spends with each parent. Parental responsibility refers to who has authority to make key decisions about a child’s upbringing, such as education, medical care, and religion. Our Boca Raton child custody lawyers counsel clients through both aspects, ensuring their voices are heard at every stage.

Both timesharing and parental responsibility can be shared or, in certain cases, awarded to just one parent based on unique circumstances. Timesharing schedules may be as equal as possible or may lean more toward one parent, depending on factors such as the proximity of households, school or daycare locations, parental work schedules, and other relevant circumstances. Consulting a child custody attorney in Boca Raton can assist you in preparing a plan that addresses all these local concerns.

Understanding Emergency & Temporary Child Custody Orders in Boca Raton

In some cases, circumstances arise where immediate action is necessary to protect a child's safety or welfare. Florida law allows for emergency and temporary custody orders when a parent or guardian can demonstrate imminent harm or the presence of serious risk factors, such as abuse, neglect, or parental substance abuse. At Haber Legal, our experienced child custody lawyers in Boca Raton help local families file emergency motions with the family court if a child's well-being is at risk. These hearings are prioritized and typically scheduled quickly in the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit, which serves Palm Beach County.

Temporary custody orders remain in effect only until a full hearing can be conducted, providing essential protection during critical periods. The legal process for these orders requires substantial documentation and clear presentation of evidence. Our Boca Raton child custody attorneys work closely with clients to gather all necessary records, communicate with the court, and ensure urgent concerns are addressed promptly. Understanding your rights and responsibilities during a custody emergency is crucial, and our firm’s experience with local court procedures enables us to act decisively on your behalf.

Navigating Florida's Child Custody Laws

When it comes to child custody in Florida, it is essential to understand the state’s legal framework and regulations. Our experienced child custody lawyers are well-versed in Florida law and can provide you with the information and support you need to navigate the complexities of the legal system in Boca Raton.

Key aspects of Florida child custody laws include:

• Legal and physical custody – Understanding who will share time with the child and who is responsible for making major decisions.
• Parental responsibility and decision-making authority in Boca Raton custody arrangements.
• Timesharing schedules and visitation rights under Florida statutes.
• Modification of custody orders, including the support of a child custody attorney in Boca Raton.
• Enforcement of custody agreements by your Boca Raton custody lawyer.

By working with our dedicated legal team, you can ensure your child’s best interests are protected, and your parental rights are upheld throughout every stage of the custody process. Our Boca Raton child custody attorneys are committed to serving families in Palm Beach County and the greater South Florida region.

Modification & Enforcement of Child Custody Orders in Boca Raton

After a custody order is entered by the Palm Beach County court, life circumstances may change, prompting the need to modify the existing arrangement. In Boca Raton, parents can petition the court to adjust timesharing or parental responsibility by demonstrating a substantial, unanticipated change in circumstances—such as relocation, changes in employment, or emerging concerns for a child's safety. At Haber Legal, our child custody attorneys in Boca Raton assist clients in preparing and presenting modification requests, ensuring that all documentation meets the standards of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does the Child Custody Process Take in Boca Raton?

The timeline for resolving a child custody matter in Boca Raton varies depending on your family’s specific circumstances. Most uncontested divorce cases—where both parents reach agreement on a parenting plan and timesharing—can be finalized within several weeks to a few months, especially after mandatory mediation sessions. However, if disagreements persist or litigation becomes necessary, the process can extend for several months or even longer. The Palm Beach County family courts strive to resolve urgent matters quickly, particularly when children’s welfare is at stake. At Haber Legal, our Boca Raton child custody attorney keeps clients informed throughout their case to ensure preparation for each procedural step in the Boca Raton court system.

What If the Other Parent Is Not Following the Custody Agreement?

If your co-parent is not adhering to the terms of a parenting plan or custody order, it is important to document each instance thoroughly and communicate your concerns formally. In Boca Raton, the Palm Beach County courts have procedures for enforcement, including contempt motions and supplemental actions to compel compliance. Our attorneys assist clients in preparing the necessary supporting documentation and representing their interests at any enforcement hearings. Timely legal action helps protect both your rights as a parent and your child’s stability, and working with a custody attorney Boca Raton families rely on can make all the difference.

Can I Relocate with My Child After a Custody Order in Boca Raton?

Florida law requires parents to obtain court approval before relocating more than 50 miles with a child subject to a custody order. The requesting parent must notify both the court and the other parent, providing detailed information about the reasons for the move and the proposed new arrangement. The other parent has the right to object, which triggers a hearing in front of a Palm Beach County judge. The court will examine whether the relocation is in the child’s best interests by evaluating factors such as educational opportunities, extended family relationships, and the impact on the child’s relationship with both parents.

Guarding Your Child’s Best Interests with Our Legal Support

At Haber Legal, we understand that child custody cases are emotionally demanding for both parents and children. Our experienced Boca Raton child custody lawyers are dedicated to protecting your child’s best interests and providing support during this challenging time.

When you choose our firm, you can expect:

• Compassionate and personalized legal representation from a trusted child custody attorney in Boca Raton
• Comprehensive evaluation of your unique circumstances by an experienced custody attorney Boca Raton clients trust
• Guidance based on in-depth knowledge of Florida child custody law
• Strong advocacy for your parental rights from a skilled Boca Raton child custody lawyer
• Negotiation and mediation for amicable resolutions whenever possible
• Assertive litigation from your custody lawyer Boca Raton families rely on, when necessary

We believe every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment to grow and thrive. Our team of Boca Raton child custody attorneys is committed to working closely with you to develop a plan that prioritizes your child’s well-being and security. When you need a child custody lawyer in Boca Raton, we’re ready to guide you through every step of your case.

Experienced Child Custody Representation

At Haber Legal, we work diligently to help you resolve timesharing and parental responsibility issues through alternative dispute resolution methods whenever possible. Ms. Haber considers litigation a last resort, as this approach can help you avoid unnecessary legal battles, emotional strain, and additional expense. Protecting your parental rights and best interests remains our priority as we follow Florida’s established custody laws and regulations. Choosing a child custody attorney Boca Raton trusts for creative problem-solving can help families achieve long-term stability. 

Learn more about how our Boca Raton child custody attorneys can help by contacting us.