Child Custody Guidance in Palm Beach & Martin Counties

Child custody disputes can be one of the most emotionally challenging aspects of divorce or separation. In Florida, courts focus on protecting the best interests of the child while ensuring both parents remain actively involved whenever appropriate.

At Gisondo Law, we represent parents throughout Palm Beach Gardens and Palm Beach County in custody and parenting plan matters. Working with an experienced Palm Beach Gardens Divorce Attorney helps protect both your parental rights and your child’s stability.

Understanding Child Custody in Florida

Florida no longer uses the term “custody.” Instead, the law focuses on:

• Parental responsibility
• Timesharing
• The best interests of the child

These principles are governed by Florida Statutes Chapter 61 – Parenting and Time-Sharing.

Parental Responsibility

Parental responsibility refers to decision-making authority regarding major issues such as:

• Education
• Healthcare
• Religious upbringing
• Extracurricular activities

Florida courts generally favor shared parental responsibility unless it would be detrimental to the child.

Timesharing

Timesharing determines the schedule for when the child resides with each parent. There is no automatic “50/50” rule. The court evaluates what arrangement best supports the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.

The Best Interests of the Child Standard

When determining parental responsibility and timesharing, courts evaluate multiple statutory factors, including:

• Each parent’s ability to encourage a close relationship with the other parent
• The moral fitness and mental health of the parents
• The child’s home, school, and community record
• Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment
• Evidence of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect

The court’s primary goal is to promote stability and minimize disruption in the child’s life.

For official parenting plan forms and guidance, you may consult the Florida Courts Family Law Self-Help Center.

Parenting Plans in Florida

A legally compliant parenting plan must include:

• A detailed timesharing schedule
• Designation of parental responsibility
• Communication methods between parents
• Provisions for school breaks and holidays
• Transportation arrangements

Parenting plans must be approved by the court to be enforceable.

If your custody case is part of a divorce, visit our Divorce & Dissolution of Marriage page to understand how parenting issues fit into the larger case.

Modifying a Custody or Timesharing Order

Custody and timesharing arrangements may be modified if there has been a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances.

Examples may include:

• Relocation
• Significant changes in a parent’s work schedule
• Evidence of harm or instability
• Changes in the child’s needs

Courts will only modify parenting plans when the change is in the best interests of the child.

Enforcement of Parenting Plans

When one parent fails to comply with a court-approved parenting plan, legal remedies may include:

• Contempt proceedings
• Make-up timesharing
• Modification of the parenting plan
• Other court-ordered sanctions

Prompt legal action can help protect your parental rights and preserve your relationship with your child.

Child Custody & Child Support

While custody and child support are separate legal issues, the number of overnight stays directly impacts support calculations.

To learn how financial obligations are determined, visit our Palm Beach Child Support Attorney page.

Why Legal Representation Matters in Custody Cases

Child custody disputes can quickly become complex and emotionally charged. Having experienced legal representation ensures:

• Protection of your parental rights
• Careful preparation of parenting plans
• Strategic presentation of evidence
• Strong courtroom advocacy when necessary

At Gisondo Law, we focus on achieving solutions that protect both your child’s well-being and your long-term parental involvement.