Child Custody Solutions For Divorcing Parents In Southeast Florida

Last updated on August 26, 2025

If there is one problem that every divorce has the hardest time overcoming, it is the problem of child custody. Both parents want to be there for the kids, but too often, the issue of child custody becomes a “chess piece” in the overall divorce. But you don’t want to lose sight of the very real consequences of custody.

For divorcing parents in southeast Florida, Weiner & Weiss, LLC, in Boca Raton, is here to help you. We are compassionate, empathetic child custody lawyers with over 60 years of combined experience. We provide legal advice and representation in all aspects of custody and always remember that we’re working for families with needs, and not playing a game.

Florida Custody Laws

The traditional way of thinking about child custody – in terms of primary custody, secondary custody and visitation – is no longer appropriate under Florida family laws. While the word “custody” is still used when discussing parental rights and responsibilities after divorce, the actual facets of custody encompass the following issues:

• Where the child will live most of the time
• When the child spends time with the other parent
• Any specific parental responsibilities for health care and education
• How will child support be affected by the time the child spends with each parent

When it comes to custody or “time sharing” as it is now called, it is Florida’s public policy to assure that minor children have frequent and continuing contact with both parents. This means that a father is given the same consideration as the mother in determining the primary residence of the child. It also means that a parent actively withholding contact with the children from the other parent can face considerable legal consequences, including contempt of court.

Best Interests Of The Child

To award custody to a sole parent or to make decisions in a contested custody dispute, courts consider several factors. Courts may consider many factors when deciding issues related to child custody, but the primary concern is always the best interests of the child.

Courts often favor parents who show more concern for their children’s needs than their own. For example, a court will likely favor a parent who allows and encourages a continuing relationship with the other parent.

Stability and the length of time the child has lived in a particular environment will also play a role in the decision. Courts support the idea that a child’s life should not be severely interrupted because the parents decide to be apart.

Parental Drug And Alcohol Addiction

Florida’s policy in favor of shared parental responsibility will not apply if a court finds that it would be detrimental to the child. For example, parents may lose custody or time-sharing rights if there is evidence of drug or alcohol abuse within a parent’s home. Our divorce attorneys have experience handling cases where substance abuse is an issue, and understand how addiction can impact a court’s decision with regard to parenting plans and time sharing.

Learn More About Child Custody In Florida From Our Skilled Legal Team

If you worry about the time you will spend with your kids, you’re already in a good place. If you worry about doing the right thing for them, no matter what, you’re already in a good place. We’re a team of attorneys who want to reflect your care and attention to your child in how we pursue your legal option.

Reach out to us if you live in Broward County or Palm Beach County and have a child custody concern. Our phone number is 561-935-5529, but we can also be reached by email. We want to help you. Talk to us to find out how that will work.