Adjusting your “custody agreement” or Final Judgment in Florida can be straightforward with the right legal help. Florida eliminated the term “custody” in its 2008 changes to Florida law. In 2023, Florida went one step further by creating a rebuttable presumption that equal time-sharing is in the best interest of the minor children. However, this change isn’t familiar in most people’s conversations about children’s issues. For the purpose of this article, we will use the terms “custody” and “time-sharing” interchangeably.
At Melone Hatley, P.C., our Tampa time-sharing modifications lawyers offer the professional support you need for these important changes.
We have extensive experience handling custody adjustments and always focus on protecting your future and your family. A Tampa custody lawyer from our team will put you first, answer your questions, and represent your best interests.
Call or complete our online contact form to learn more.
Why Hire a Custody/Time-sharing Modifications Lawyer in Tampa?
Making changes to your custody arrangement is challenging and risky if you attempt it alone. The custody laws are complex, and in many cases, the situation results in high emotions that can make reaching an agreement difficult.
Fortunately, you won’t have to go through this process alone. Turn to a skilled and experienced Tampa family lawyer for help. Your custody modifications attorney in Tampa will review your situation to see if you qualify to make changes to custody and collect evidence to support your request.
Our legal team will also help if your child’s other parent challenges the current custody arrangement. If necessary, we can help you defend against these modification requests and protect your rights.
How Can Our Team Help With Modification Requests?
Our legal team provides comprehensive assistance with all aspects of custody modifications. We know how to:
- Evaluate the grounds for any modification requests.
- Collect evidence to build your case.
- Negotiate with your child’s other parent or their lawyer.
- Present your case before a judge when necessary.
We treat you with compassion throughout the legal process. We always put your best interests first and keep you informed throughout each step of the modification process.
Tampa Custody Modifications
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813-400-1602What Options do You Have to Modify Custody in Tampa?
You have two primary options to make changes to your custody arrangement in Florida. Depending on your situation, our legal team may suggest:
Drafting Modifications With the Other Parent
You may wonder if your child custody case has to go to court. If you have a good co-parenting relationship with your child’s other parent, you can include them in a discussion to decide on acceptable modifications.
Your lawyer can then draft the new agreement and submit the document to the court.
The court will review the modifications and decide whether to accept them. Working with a lawyer can help you draft a document that meets all state family law requirements, taking stress and uncertainty out of the process.
Petitioning the Court for a Change
When your child’s other parent does not agree to custody modifications, our team at Melone Hatley, P.C., will assist you in petitioning the court for the necessary changes. We will provide the court with evidence and arguments to support your request for modification, always focusing on your interests and those of your child.
Judges in family court prioritize the needs of children above all else. Our goal is to present your case in a way that clearly shows how the proposed modifications benefit your child, ensuring the court’s decisions align with your child’s best interests. We are committed to guiding you through this legal process with professionalism and dedication.
When Can You Modify Time-Sharing Agreements in Tampa?
You will have a chance to modify your Florida parenting plan if there is a “substantial” and material change in circumstances and such change is in the best interest of the minor child. For example, some families seek to adjust custody because:
- A parent lost or gained a job.
- A parent wants or needs to move for a valid reason, like work relocation.
- A parent’s financial situation changes in an unforeseen way.
- Someone in the family sustains an injury or develops a severe illness.
- The other parent passes away.
- Your child’s needs change due to age, health, or education.
- The other parent consistently violates the terms of the current custody agreement.
- A parent that previously lived more than 50 miles away moves closer.
Your child may also express a strong preference for living with you over the other parent, which the court can consider depending on your child’s age and maturity.
Our team understands that sometimes custody changes need to happen for the safety of your child. You can request changes to a custody order if you learn or suspect:
- Domestic violence by the other parent.
- Alcohol or drug addiction is affecting the other parent’s ability to provide a safe environment for your child.
- Your child’s other parent is convicted of a felony in Tampa.
We’ll address your concerns and help you review your next steps to protect and care for your child.
Why Choose Us for Custody Modifications in Tampa, FL?
Our team has a decade of experience handling complex family law cases. We prioritize our clients, ensuring you never have to deal with legal stresses alone. You can always reach out to our top-rated Tampa custody modification attorneys for advice and guidance.
We believe in protecting your family, future, and finances. We also provide you with a free consultation from a Client Services Coordinator so you can discuss your situation without obligation or costs.
Additionally, we operate as a full-service family law firm. Contact us if you have concerns about spousal support, child support modifications, or even your initial divorce. Discuss all your legal matters with us today.
How Long Will it Take to Modify Time-Sharing in Tampa?
The time to adjust time-sharing for your child in Florida can vary significantly. Florida family courts deal with many cases, which slows the legal process. We’ll do everything we can to move your request through the system quickly.
Having legal support can allow you to meet many of the challenges associated with custody modifications. Your lawyer will file all paperwork on time and present information that backs up your request.
We’re ready to begin the process of requesting necessary adjustments today. Reach out to us and discuss the changes needed for your family.
Speak to a Time-Sharing Modifications Lawyer in Tampa, FL
Seek assistance from a Tampa custody modifications lawyer at Melone Hatley, P.C.. We always prioritize your interests and those of your child. Our team will address your concerns regarding custody, child support, and spousal support, ensuring you receive the guidance and representation you need.
To discuss your situation and explore your options, call us or fill out our online contact form. Our dedicated team is here to support you through every step of the custody modification process.