Practice Areas

Child Custody & Parenting Plans

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Our practice focuses exclusively on family law. From divorces and custody, to adoption, prenups and alimony, we are here to fight for your rights.

Call us today 954-734-6048 and have a friend in your corner.

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Child Custody & Parenting Plans

Child custody is always a stressful and anxiety provoking issue. The child experiences the most stress and guilt when they feel they caused the breakup and then attempt to reunite the parents. If the child feels “forced to choose,” this compiles the burden.

Child custody refers to the care, control, and maintenance of a minor. In a joint custody situation, both parents share legal and physical child custody. In Florida, joint custody is called shared parental responsibility, and both parents must approve all decisions related to the child. If this is not possible, the courts will get involved.

A parent with legal custody of a child can make educational, religious, medical, and even disciplinary decisions. Through these laws, the courts will also decide on physical custody. The courts determine physical custody to establish where a child will live.

Child custody may be either shared or sole custody. The Florida courts demonstrate a strong preference for shared (or joint) custody arrangements, known as “time sharing.” Unless there is evidence that shared custody would not benefit the child, the courts usually prefer a time sharing arrangement. At some point, a Parenting Plan may be implemented.

For these and a host of other reasons, child custody can be the most contentious and stressful element of a divorce. Our firm understands these sensitive aspects and will work with you to determine the appropriate outcome with the utmost of care and consideration to you and your family.

Parenting Plans

A parenting plan is a document established by the parents of a minor child, and approved by the court, which governs the relationship between the parents and the child.

A parenting plan may address issues such as the child’s education, health care, and physical, social, and emotional well-being, and must include a time sharing schedule. This generally covers who is responsible for daily activities, driving, and everything regarding the child’s schedule, lifestyle and activities.

Rather than engage in an acrimonious legal battle, the court will encourage the parents to create their own parenting plan, either between themselves or through mediation. A well-intentioned parenting plan addresses both the custodial rights and responsibilities of parents of minor children.

Parents agree to a plan that considers their children’s ages and needs. If they continue to co-parent effectively, they can adjust their plans over time to ensure that their plan remains in the best interest of their children. Our office can help you create a parenting plan most effective for your needs and that of your children.

Experienced Fort Lauderdale Family Law Attorney

  • Divorce

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    Divorce

    We recognize that divorce is difficult, and that you are coming to us at a stressful and traumatic time in your life. It is our goal to make your life easier by providing you with the compassion, support, guidance and legal acumen you need to make the right choices. Read More Divorce

  • Alimony & Spousal Support

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    Alimony & Spousal Support

    For many couples, an equitable division of property does not end with the valuation and distribution of their property. The court may also award a husband or wife alimony, or spousal support, to ensure that he or she is financially stable after the divorce. Read More Alimony & Spousal Support

  • Child Support

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    Child Support

    Parents have an obligation not only to care for their children, but also to provide for them financially. Whether parents are married or not, the court ensures that both parents are contributing to a child’s financial needs through child support awards. Read More Child Support

  • Paternity & DNA Testing

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    Paternity & DNA Testing

    When unmarried couples have a child, establishing legal paternity is ciritcal to ensuring your rights as a parent. Read More Paternity & DNA Testing

  • Child Custody & Parenting Plans

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    Child Custody & Parenting Plans

    Decisions involving children are often the most difficult and important ones that parents must make. We are dedicated to helping parents work through these complicated and difficult issues to find viable solutions that serve the best interests of their children. Read More Child Custody & Parenting Plans

  • Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

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    Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

    Prenuptial agreements are contracts that allow couples who are planning for marriage to protect their assets if the marriage should end. Both parties will need their own experienced attorney guiding them through the process. Read More Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements

  • Adoption & Family Building

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    Adoption & Family Building

    If you are considering adoption or family building (IVF, surrogates, etc.), there are many legal aspects that must be considered before and during the process. Adkins Family Law can help you navigate all aspects of this complex area. Read More Adoption & Family Building

  • Post-Judgment Modifications

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    Post-Judgment Modifications

    Families change and evolve with time, making it difficult for courts to implement orders that remain relevant, fair and beneficial to the family. When circumstances change, families can request to modify court orders to more adequately reflect their needs. Read More Post-Judgment Modifications

  • Domestic Violence

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    Domestic Violence

    If you are a victim of domestic violence, there are many legal remedies available to you. We can help explain all of your options and provide legal and emotional support during this tough time. Read More Domestic Violence

  • Interstate Orders

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    Interstate Orders

    Enforcing divorce and other family law related matters from other states can be challenging. Adkins Family Law can help protect your rights across state lines. Read More Interstate Orders

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