When a child has special needs, divorce or separation can feel like an entirely different world compared to standard custody cases. Imagine a mother in Orlando navigating shared parenting for her son with autism — between therapy appointments, a strict daily routine, and specialized medical equipment, every decision feels high-stakes. For families...
The Role of Guardians ad Litem in High-Conflict Custody Cases
When parents cannot agree on what is best for their child during a time-sharing dispute, the Florida term for custody, emotions often run high, and communication can break down completely. In particularly contentious situations, Florida family courts may appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent the child’s best interests. For...
Who Gets Custody of Adopted Children During Divorce?
Divorce can be an emotionally and legally complex process, particularly when children are involved. For parents of adopted children, the custody battle may raise unique legal questions and concerns. At Orlando Family Team, we understand that adopted children are just as much a part of the family as biological children, and...
The Other Parent Has Sole Custody. Do I Still Have to Pay Child Support?
Parents have a legal obligation to support their children financially, no matter the custody arrangement. Child support ensures a child’s needs are met, even when one parent has sole custody. If you're wondering if you still have to pay child support if the other parent has full custody, the answer is almost...
Is Sole Custody Available in Florida?
In Florida, child custody–referred to as “parental responsibility”--can be a significant and emotionally charged issue during divorce proceedings. Decisions surrounding parenting responsibilities, time-sharing, and family structure can shape the future of everyone involved, especially children. In some cases, one parent may seek “sole custody,” or what Florida law now refers to...
Shared Custody in Orlando: Creating a Fun and Balanced Summer Schedule
Florida courts recognize the value of allowing children to build meaningful relationships with both of their parents, which is why shared custody arrangements are the preferred option. When summer arrives and school’s out, what can you and your child’s other parent do to create a fun and balanced shared custody arrangement?
The Impact of Orlando’s School Districts on Custody Agreements
When parents in Orlando decide to separate or divorce, one of the most crucial aspects of their custody agreement is determining which school district their children will attend. The choice of school district can have a significant impact on a child's educational opportunities, social development, and overall well-being. As such, it's essential...
Couples with Young Children: Navigating Custody and Co-Parenting
Co-parenting after a separation or divorce is a challenging task, particularly when the children are young. As attorneys at Orlando Family Team, we have worked with a great many restructured families with young children over the years. As a result, we have developed a number of insights into co-parenting that may...
Supporting Your Child Through a Custody Dispute
Divorce is typically a wrenching process, especially for the children involved. If the divorcing parents can’t agree on a child custody arrangement, the process is all the more grueling.
At Orlando Family Team, we have more than two decades of experience helping clients throughout Central Florida guide their children...
Strategies for Resolving Co-Parenting Disputes
Co-parenting after a divorce or after the end of a relationship can be challenging. The problems that led to the end of a romantic relationship can carry over into the co-parenting relationship. Feelings of ill will, hurt, and general animosity can be tough to shake. There can also be disagreements over parenting...