Martin County Divorce Attorneys Focus on Custody and Parenting Legal Issues
Florida Family Law Firm Putting Your Family First
When Martin County courts make decisions regarding child custody and visitation, they must consider what is best based upon the best interests of the child.
Parental responsibility Time Sharing
In 2009, the Florida legislature enacted laws eliminating the concept of primary and secondary child custody as well as visitation, replacing them with what is known as parental time sharing. These changes came as a result of the perceived unfair situation that many secondary child custodians found themselves in because while they were caring for a child up to 50 percent of the time and in many cases providing for the child, they did not have the same legal rights as the primary custodian regarding important decisions made for the child. Furthermore, they were still obligated to pay child support in addition to money spent caring for the child during visitation. In an effort to eliminate such conflicts, the Florida legislature replaced the old system of awarding custody to one parent or the other with the time sharing concept.
Establishing Shared Parental Responsibility and Time Sharing
To keep the focus on the best interests of children and not the personal agendas of parents, Florida courts consider many factors when they make decisions regarding shared parental responsibility and time sharing arrangements, including:
- The demonstrated capacity of each parent to encourage a close and continuing parent-child relationship
- The developmental stages and needs of the child, and the ability of each party to meet the child’s developmental needs
- The moral fitness, mental and physical health of both parents
- The stability of home environment and continuity in the child’s routine.
- The geographic feasibility of the proposed schedule
- The history of child abuse, neglect, substance abuse by both parties
- And other factors demonstrating each parent’s capacity to care for their child
McBride Legal Group, P.A. vigorously advocates for the rights of parents in custody and parenting matters. Family law attorney Luisa McBride combines dedicated representation with compassionate counsel, recognizing the personal and legal challenges families encounter. The right attorney can make all the difference in securing a custody and parenting time agreement that supports a strong, meaningful relationship with your child.
Contact McBride Legal Group, P.A. Today
Do you have questions regarding child custody and visitation in Martin County? The experienced family law attorney at McBride Legal Group, P.A. will advise you of your rights and help you make decisions that will be best for your family. Contact us online or call 772-236-0234 to schedule your initial case evaluation today.




