At what age can a child make custody decision in Florida?

At what age can a child make custody decision in Florida?

A child cannot choose which parent they want to live until they are 18-years-old. As they get older, however, their opinion can have a greater weight with the court.

Can a 12 year old decide which parent to live with in Florida?

In Florida, the age a child can choose a parent to live with will depend on the child’s overall maturity. Unlike other states, in Florida, there is no particular age when courts must consider a child’s preference. Instead, a judge will decide whether: the child is intelligent enough to make a choice.

How does Florida define unfit parent?

What Does it Mean to Be an Unfit Parent in Florida? Florida Statute §751.05 states that the court must find that a parent has abandoned, abused, or neglected a child to find that a parent is unfit. A parent may also be found unfit if the parent has a mental illness or substance abuse problem.

How can a mother lose custody of her child in Florida?

According to Florida Statute 751.05, in order for a parent to be found unfit, they must have abused, neglected, or abandoned the child. If one parent puts his or her child and ex through that knowing that the allegation is false, the courts would deem them mentally unfit to parent and revoke custody from them.

What are the rules for child custody in Florida?

Florida child custody law 61.13 also lists many factors for the judge to consider, including but not limited to: The preference of the child. When considering a parent’s moral fitness, the court will focus on whether the parent’s conduct has had or is reasonably likely to impact the child directly adversely.

What happens in a shared custody case in Florida?

When shared custody is ordered, a court should refrain from awarding a parent ultimate responsibility concerning the children. See Florida child custody case, Markham v. Markham. However, control over specific aspects of the child’s welfare may be awarded to one parent.

Can a judge interfere with a parenting plan in Florida?

If parents agree on the terms of the parenting plan, the judge will typically ratify their agreement. Usually, a judge will only interfere if the terms conflict with Florida law or policy. Florida courts have a policy of allowing both parents to have frequent and continuing contact with their children.

What happens in an uncontested child custody case?

An uncontested case is when both parents have reached an agreement before filing the case. If there is an agreement on the terms of custody, it will speed up the court process. If parents agree on the terms of the parenting plan, the judge will typically ratify their agreement.