Child Custody

At NLG Divorce & Family Law, we understand that child custody matters are some of the most emotionally charged and legally complex issues in any family law case. Whether you’re navigating a divorce, facing a custody dispute, or seeking a modification, our Tampa child custody attorneys are here to help you protect your relationship with your child and reach a solution that serves their best interests.

Understanding Child Custody in Florida

In Florida, the term “custody” is often replaced with “time-sharing” and “parental responsibility.” However, the goal remains the same, to determine how parents will share rights and responsibilities for their child’s upbringing.

There are two main components:

  • Parental Responsibility
    Refers to who makes major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, religion, and welfare. Florida courts often prefer shared parental responsibility, unless it would be detrimental to the child.

  • Time-Sharing (Physical Custody)
    Refers to the actual schedule of where the child lives and how much time they spend with each parent. Time-sharing is detailed in a parenting plan approved by the court.

An Introduction to Custody

  • The court's guiding principle is the best interest of the child. Judges consider factors including:

    • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment

    • The child’s relationship with each parent

    • School, home, and community continuity

    • Each parent’s willingness to encourage a relationship with the other parent

    • Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or substance use

    • The child’s reasonable preference (depending on age/maturity)

    • Each parent’s moral fitness and mental/physical health

  • Whether you're going through a divorce or are an unmarried parent seeking custody rights, we can help with:

    • Initial custody and time-sharing agreements

    • Establishing or contesting parental responsibility

    • Parenting plan creation and negotiation

    • Modifications due to relocation, changing needs, or unfit parenting

    • Enforcement of existing custody orders

    • Emergency custody matters

  • A child’s preference may be considered by the court if the child is mature enough to express a reasoned preference. However, it’s just one of many factors evaluated to determine what’s in the child’s best interest.

  • If the other parent refuses to follow the time-sharing order, you can file a motion for enforcement. The court may grant you makeup time, hold the other parent in contempt, or impose other remedies.

  • While sole parental responsibility is rare, it can be granted in cases involving abuse, neglect, or a parent being unfit. The court must be convinced that shared parenting would be harmful to the child.

  • If paternity has been legally established, both parents have rights. If not, the biological father must first establish paternity before seeking time-sharing or parental responsibility through the court.

  • Yes. Custody (time-sharing or parental responsibility) can be modified if there has been a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances, and the change is in the child’s best interest.

  • It depends on the complexity, level of agreement between parents, and court availability. Cases can take anywhere from a few months (if uncontested) to a year or more for high-conflict or heavily litigated cases.

Why Choose Our Team?

We’re not just legal advisors—we’re advocates for your family. Our firm is known for:

  • Personalized strategies based on your unique goals

  • Strong courtroom experience and skilled negotiation

  • Compassionate communication during emotionally difficult times

  • A focus on stability and well-being for your children

We’re committed to protecting your rights as a parent while helping you build a foundation for a healthier co-parenting future.