Child Custody and Support in Florida: Building a Future That Puts Children First

Divorce doesn’t just impact spouses — it reshapes families. When children are involved, the stakes become even higher. Every decision about custody, visitation, and support directly affects a child’s emotional well-being and development.

At Bickman Law, we understand that your children’s future is your top priority. With more than 15 years of trial experience, Attorney Joshua Bickman provides compassionate, strategic representation to parents across Miami, navigating Florida’s complex child custody and support laws. Our mission is simple: to help you protect your parental rights while ensuring your children’s best interests always come first.

 

Understanding Child Custody in Florida

Florida no longer uses the terms “custody” and “visitation” in the traditional sense. Instead, the law refers to “parental responsibility” and “time-sharing.”

• Parental Responsibility refers to the right to make major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and upbringing.

• Time-sharing defines the schedule for when each parent spends time with the child.

The foundation of Florida’s custody law is built on one guiding principle: the best interests of the child.

 

The “Best Interests of the Child” Standard

Florida courts are required to prioritize what’s best for the child above all else. To determine this, judges evaluate a range of factors under Florida Statute §61.13, including:

• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, loving environment is crucial.

• The child’s relationship with each parent.

• Each parent’s mental and physical health.

• The child’s school, home, and community history.

• Each parent’s willingness to foster a relationship between the child and the other parent.

• Any history of domestic violence, neglect, or substance abuse.

• The child’s preference depends on age and maturity.

At Bickman Law, we help parents present clear, compelling evidence that demonstrates their ability to provide a nurturing and stable home. We don’t just advocate — we tell your story in a way that judges can understand and respect.

 

Shared vs. Sole Parental Responsibility

In most cases, Florida courts favor shared parental responsibility, meaning both parents must communicate and make joint decisions about their child’s welfare. This arrangement promotes cooperation and ensures both parents remain actively involved in the child’s life.

However, in cases involving abuse, neglect, or extreme conflict, the court may grant sole parental responsibility to one parent. This gives the parent full authority to make decisions without requiring the other’s input.

Our firm handles both cooperative and high-conflict custody situations. Whether you’re seeking shared custody or need protection from a harmful situation, we develop legal strategies that safeguard both you and your child.

 

Creating a Parenting Plan

Every Florida custody case requires a parenting plan, which outlines how parents will share time and responsibilities.

A comprehensive parenting plan includes:

• A detailed time-sharing schedule (weekdays, weekends, holidays, vacations).

• Allocation of parental decision-making authority.

• Guidelines for communication (phone calls, video chats, etc.).

• Provisions for transportation and exchange of the child.

If parents can agree on a plan, they can submit it to the court for approval. If they cannot, the court will establish one based on the child’s best interests.

At Bickman Law, we help clients craft practical, well-balanced parenting plans that reduce conflict and provide consistency for children.

 

Time-Sharing Arrangements in Florida

Florida courts encourage frequent and continuing contact between children and both parents. However, the actual time-sharing schedule varies depending on each family’s unique circumstances.

Common arrangements include:

• Equal time-sharing (50/50): Both parents spend approximately equal time with the child.

• Majority time-sharing: One parent has primary physical residence, and the other has regular visitation.

• Supervised visitation: Used when there are safety concerns or allegations of abuse.

Judges consider factors such as the parents’ work schedules, proximity of homes, and the child’s schooling when determining the schedule.

Our goal is to help parents create a plan that promotes stability, minimizes disruption, and keeps the child’s emotional needs at the forefront.

 

Modifying Custody Orders

Life changes — jobs move, children grow, and circumstances evolve. When that happens, Florida law allows parents to request a modification to their parenting plan or time-sharing schedule.

To modify an existing order, you must demonstrate:

1. A substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances.

2. That the modification is in the child’s best interests.

Examples include relocation, changes in employment, health issues, or evidence of neglect.

At Bickman Law, we assist clients in filing modification petitions and presenting persuasive arguments supported by evidence and expert testimony.

 

Relocation and Out-of-State Moves

One of the most common post-divorce challenges arises when a parent wants to relocate more than 50 miles away with a child. Florida law requires either:

• Written consent from the other parent, or

• Court approval after a formal petition and hearing.

Courts weigh factors like the reason for the move, its impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent, and educational or economic benefits.

Our firm has extensive experience representing both relocating parents and those opposing relocation. We work to ensure the outcome reflects the best interests of the child — and protects your parental rights.

 

Understanding Child Support in Florida

Child support ensures that children receive the financial resources they need to thrive, regardless of which parent they live with most of the time.

How Child Support Is Calculated

Florida uses a standardized formula under Florida Statute §61.30, which considers:

• Each parent’s gross income (wages, bonuses, self-employment income, etc.).

• The number of children.

• The cost of childcare and health insurance.

• The percentage of overnight stays each parent has.

The goal is to ensure that children enjoy a similar standard of living in both households.

Even when parents agree on support amounts, the court must approve the final figure to ensure it aligns with statutory guidelines.

 

Modifying Child Support Orders

Child support isn’t fixed forever. Either parent can request a modification if there’s a significant change in circumstances — such as a job loss, change in income, or the child’s evolving needs.

At Bickman Law, we guide clients through modification petitions with precision, ensuring proper documentation and compliance with Florida law.

 

Enforcing Child Support Orders

If a parent fails to pay child support, enforcement actions can be taken through the Florida Department of Revenue or the court system. These may include:

• Wage garnishment.

• Seizure of tax refunds.

• Suspension of driver’s or professional licenses.

• Contempt of court penalties.

Our firm assists parents in enforcing unpaid child support orders and protecting children’s financial stability.

 

The Role of Mediation in Custody and Support Cases

Florida family courts strongly encourage mediation before taking custody or support disputes to trial. Mediation allows parents to work collaboratively with a neutral third party to find common ground.

The benefits of mediation include:

• Faster resolution.

• Lower legal costs.

• Greater control over outcomes.

• Less emotional strain for children.

At Bickman Law, we prepare clients for mediation with clear strategies and realistic expectations. We ensure that every agreement protects both your rights and your child’s welfare.

 

Domestic Violence and Custody Considerations

Cases involving domestic violence require special care. Florida courts take allegations of abuse extremely seriously. If there’s evidence of physical, emotional, or psychological harm, the court may:

• Grant sole parental responsibility.

• Limit or supervise time-sharing.

• Issue restraining or protection orders.

Attorney Joshua Bickman, a former Domestic Violence Prosecutor, brings deep insight into how these cases are handled in Florida courts. We act swiftly to ensure that protective measures are in place when needed — and that allegations are appropriately investigated and addressed.

 

How Bickman Law Protects Families

Our approach to custody and support cases blends empathy with strength. We understand the emotional toll these cases take on parents and children alike.

When you work with Bickman Law, you can expect:

• Personal attention: You work directly with Attorney Joshua Bickman.

• Comprehensive strategy: From negotiation to trial, every step is meticulously planned.

• Proven results: Our record reflects years of success in Miami family courts.

• Child-focused advocacy: Every decision we make aims to preserve stability and protect children’s well-being.

We believe that strong, informed parents create strong families — even after divorce.

 

Moving Forward with Confidence

Divorce marks a new chapter, not the end of your role as a parent. With the right legal guidance, you can maintain meaningful involvement in your child’s life and ensure their needs are fully met.

At Bickman Law, we help Miami parents navigate custody and support with compassion, clarity, and commitment. Whether you’re facing your first court hearing, seeking a modification, or dealing with enforcement issues, our firm stands ready to protect your rights and your family’s future.

 

Schedule a Confidential Consultation

If you’re dealing with a custody or child support matter, don’t face it alone. Let an experienced Miami family lawyer guide you through the process with strength and understanding.

Call (305) 409-3636 to schedule a confidential consultation with Attorney Joshua Bickman today. Together, we’ll protect your family, your rights, and your peace of mind.