Family Law FAQs
Have Questions for Family Law Attorneys in Treasure Coast, FL?
The Law Offices of Travis R. Walker, P.A. Offers Client Advice
When you need an experienced family law attorney in Treasure Coast, FL, you can turn to The Law Offices of Travis R. Walker, P.A. Whether you’re divorcing or have concerns about estate planning, our team is available for consultations to help put your mind at ease. Below, you’ll find the answers to our firm’s frequently asked questions. Reach out to us today and request an appointment for aggressive but compassionate representation. We’re here to help you achieve the best possible results.
What Is a Family Law Attorney? When Would You Need One?
Family law attorneys focus on legal issues involving family relations, including divorces, adoptions, child custody, spousal and child support, paternity testing, parenting plans, and more. Hiring a family law attorney is in your best interest to help you achieve the desired outcome for your case.
What’s the Difference Between Joint Custody and Sole Custody?
Divorces become more complex when children are involved. Under sole custody, one parent is granted legal and physical custody of a child. Under joint custody (also called shared parental responsibility), both parents share these responsibilities and must approve any decisions related to the child, including which parent the child will live with and where the child will go to school. Joint custody requires open communication between both parents.
How Is a Child’s “Best Interest” Defined? When Can a Child Decide?
Courts are often tasked with determining what’s in the “best interests” of children. Factors influencing such decisions include the child’s mental and physical health and safety. The parents’ ability to provide a safe home with access to food, clothing and medical care will be carefully examined, as well as the emotional ties between the child, both parents, and any siblings or other household members. The child’s age, developmental needs, and whether there’s a history of domestic violence are also used to determine custody. Age is not the only factor used to determine whether a child’s preferences should influence custody proceedings. The judge also considers the child’s maturity and intelligence.
What Is a Parenting Plan, and Do I Need One in Florida?
The state of Florida requires a parenting plan to determine how much time a child spends with each parent. If the parents live far away from each other, it may also determine who pays travel expenses. Both parents will need to agree upon how time will be shared between them, as well as how to divide all child-related expenses, including healthcare, school supplies, and extracurricular activities.
If I Have to Relocate, What Should I Do About Child Custody?
Generally, if you want to relocate more than 50 miles away from the other parent, you will need to obtain their permission or file a petition for relocation with the courts. Failure to receive permission can find you held in contempt, and you could lose joint custody rights in the future.
What Is Alimony? How Long Does Alimony Last?
Alimony is spousal support granted after a divorce. The marriage’s length, the reasons for the divorce, and the couple’s finances are all used to determine if alimony is appropriate and how long it should last. It is typically calculated based upon an individual’s need for it and the other individual’s ability to pay it. Alimony is usually granted to long-term spouses versus short-term spouses.
Will I Have to Go to Court for My Case?
Not all clients need to go to court. The Law Offices of Travis R. Walker, P.A. will do everything in our power to see that your legal issue is resolved outside of court. While there are never any guarantees, we have successfully settled many issues through mediation and other processes. Please contact us today to request a legal consultation with some of the best family court lawyers in Treasure Coast, FL!