Best Child Visitation Lawyers in Coral Springs

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The Gaines Law Firm, P.A.
Coral Springs, United States

Founded in 2014
1 person in their team
English
The Gaines Law Firm, P.A. is a boutique South Florida firm led by Richard H. Gaines, Esq., with a dedicated focus on Family and Corporate/Commercial litigation. The firm delivers targeted representation across family matters such as divorce, paternity, child support and alimony, custody and...
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1. About Child Visitation Law in Coral Springs, United States

In Coral Springs, child visitation is governed within Florida's family law framework. The system focuses on time-sharing and parenting plans rather than traditional custody labels, with the aim of maximizing the child’s welfare and continuing meaningful contact with both parents. Local courts in Broward County review each case under the “best interests of the child” standard and tailor schedules to fit each family’s unique circumstances.

Key concepts you will encounter include a formal parenting plan, a timesharing schedule, and provisions for holidays, vacations, and exchanges. Judges consider factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the stability of the home environment, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.

Practical note: Coral Springs residents often rely on local family court resources in Broward County for mediation, temporary orders, and enforcement actions related to time-sharing and parenting plans. Understanding local procedures helps you prepare for hearings and negotiations.

“Florida uses the best interests of the child standard to determine time-sharing arrangements in family court.”

Source: Florida Courts

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Digital and in-person resources are helpful, but a qualified family law attorney can translate local rules into a practical plan for your family. The following real-world scenarios apply specifically to Coral Springs and Broward County.

  • Relocating with a child within or outside Florida. You plan to move to another city or state and need a court-approved relocation plan that protects your time-sharing rights while addressing the other parent’s concerns.
  • Modifying an existing timesharing agreement due to changed circumstances. A new job, health issues, or a shift in parenting capabilities may justify a modification to the schedule.
  • Enforcing a court order after non-compliance. If the other parent consistently violates agreed timesharing or obstructs exchanges, legal action may be necessary.
  • Addressing safety concerns or domestic violence. If there are safety or risk factors affecting the child, you need a plan that reflects protective measures and possible temporary orders.
  • Creating a detailed parenting plan for holidays and vacations. A well-drafted plan minimizes disputes by setting clear expectations for arrivals, exchanges, and special days.
  • Resolving jurisdictional questions and mediation requirements. Many Broward cases begin with mediation to create an amicable agreement before a court hearing.

3. Local Laws Overview

Coral Springs child visitation is governed by Florida statutes and rules that apply statewide, with local court practices in Broward County. The following are commonly cited provisions you should know by name.

  • Florida Statutes Chapter 61 - Dissolution of Marriage; Support; Custody; Time-Sharing. This chapter governs how parenting plans and timesharing are structured when parents separate or divorce, including processes for temporary orders and modification requests.
  • Section 61.13 - Best interests of the child. Florida uses a detailed, enumerated set of factors to determine what arrangement best protects a child’s welfare, involving both parents and the child’s needs.
  • Section 61.14 - Temporary custody and visitation. This provision allows the court to issue temporary orders during litigation to preserve the child’s welfare while the case proceeds.
  • Section 61.13001 - Relocation with a child. This provision governs situations where a parent seeks to move with the child and requires notice and a court evaluation of the relocation impact on time-sharing.

Recent trends and practical notes: Since 2020, Florida courts have expanded access to mediation and remote hearings in family cases, including those involving timesharing. Local Broward resources emphasize safer exchanges and protective measures where DV or safety concerns exist. For authoritative guidance, consult statewide resources and Broward County Clerk information as you prepare for a case in Coral Springs.

“Courts increasingly rely on mediation and clear parenting plans to reduce disputes in time-sharing cases.”

Source: Florida Courts

“The My Florida Families site provides official guidance on parenting plans, time-sharing, and related resources for families in Florida.”

Source: My Florida Families

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is time-sharing and how is it decided in Florida?

Time-sharing refers to the schedule outlining when the child will be with each parent. Florida uses the best interests of the child standard, applying factors to determine an appropriate schedule, often documented in a parenting plan.

How do I start a custody or time-sharing case in Coral Springs?

Begin by filing a petition for dissolution or a petition for time-sharing with the Broward County Clerk of Courts. You should gather financial records, parenting plans, and a proposed time-sharing schedule to present to the court or mediator.

When can I get a temporary order for time-sharing in Broward County?

Temporary orders may be requested when urgent issues affect the child’s welfare. A judge can set a temporary schedule at the early stage of litigation to maintain stability while the case proceeds.

What is the difference between custody and time-sharing in Florida law?

Florida uses the term time-sharing rather than custody. Time-sharing describes the schedule of the child’s time with each parent, while custody labels have largely been replaced by parenting plans and time-sharing considerations.

Do I need to attend mediation before a court hearing in Coral Springs?

Many Broward County cases encourage or require mediation to resolve disputes. Mediation often helps the parties reach an agreement without a trial.

How much does a family law attorney typically charge in Broward County?

Hourly rates for family law attorneys in Broward County vary widely, commonly ranging from $200 to $400 per hour depending on experience and complexity. Some lawyers offer initial consultations with flat or capped fees.

Can I relocate with my child if the other parent objects?

Relocation requires court approval unless both parents consent. The court weighs the child’s best interests, reasons for relocation, and impact on the time-sharing arrangement.

What evidence supports a relocation request in Coral Springs?

Evidence may include a proposed new residence, employment opportunities, access to schooling or healthcare, and a plan for maintaining the child’s relationship with the other parent.

Is domestic violence a factor in deciding time-sharing in Florida?

Yes. Domestic violence considerations are part of the best interests analysis, and protective orders or DV findings can influence parenting plans and time-sharing.

How long does a typical custody case take in Florida?

Final resolutions often take several months to a year, depending on case complexity, court availability, and whether disputes head to trial or settle via mediation.

Do I need to hire a Coral Springs attorney for child visitation matters?

Having local counsel helps navigate Broward County procedures and local court practices, communicates effectively with the judge, and ensures timely filings and proper forms are used.

What should I prepare for a custody hearing in Broward County?

Prepare current schedules, school and medical records, communication logs, and a proposed parenting plan. Bring witnesses if needed and be ready to discuss practical day-to-day arrangements.

5. Additional Resources

  • Florida Courts - Official statewide judicial resources, family law guidance, and mediation information. https://www.flcourts.org
  • My Florida Families - State government site with parenting plans, time-sharing guidance, and support services for families. https://www.myflfamilies.com
  • Broward County Clerk of Courts - Local court filings, scheduling, and mediation programs for Broward County Family Court. https://www.browardclerk.org

6. Next Steps

  1. Gather and organize documents. Collect birth certificates, school records, medical records, financial statements, and any prior court orders. This helps clarify time-sharing needs and supports your case. Timeline: 1-2 weeks.
  2. Consult a Coral Springs family law attorney. Schedule initial consultations with local attorneys who handle child visitation and custody in Broward County. Ask about their approach to mediation and trial readiness. Timeline: 1-3 weeks to set up meetings.
  3. Define your goals and a proposed parenting plan. Draft a preliminary timesharing schedule, holiday plan, and a plan for exchanges that fits your family routine. Timeline: 1 week for drafting a draft plan.
  4. File the petition or respond through the Broward County Clerk of Courts. Prepare to file a petition for time-sharing or respond to a petition with your attorney, including any temporary orders you seek. Timeline: 2-6 weeks depending on readiness.
  5. Attend mediation and court hearings as scheduled. Participate in mediation to resolve disputes; be prepared for a court hearing if no agreement is reached. Timeline: mediation often within 4-8 weeks after filing; hearings may follow in 1-3 months.
  6. Follow up on document requests and discovery. If the other side requests information, respond promptly to avoid delays. Timeline: varies; usually 2-6 weeks.
  7. Review and update the parenting plan as needed. After court orders, revisit the plan if circumstances change or as the child grows. Timeline: ongoing, with formal modifications as needed.

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Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

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