Child Custody Lawyer In Lakeland
Being a parent in today’s world is one of the hardest jobs out there. And when you’re a single or divorced parent, the job becomes more isolating and more complex. You can feel like you’re all but hanging on unless you get the help of an experienced, trusted child custody lawyer.
At McNelis Law, P.A., I, Stacey H. McNelis, have built a reputation across Central Florida for insight and toughness in high-stakes family law issues. Custody problems are always disruptive, and you deserve to have an attorney on your side who will treat you with compassion and be ready to fight.
Compassionate And Aggressive As Needed
As your child custody lawyer, I offer you two important traits on top of my 24 years of family law experience in Florida. The first is compassion; I understand that all custody issues are immensely personal and those who have custody questions want answers as quickly as possible.
That compassion provides you with the space to feel comfortable with the services I offer. It also lets me build rapport with you so I can show you the benefits of the other half of my promise: aggressive service.
Sometimes child custody is a cutthroat issue. Parents want the time and financial edge that comes with being the primary parent. Anger, resentment and frustration can mount, and you need someone who will meet aggressiveness head on. Our goal, in your case, is the same as your goal: get a good result for your family and your children.
Answering Questions About Child Custody
I take immense pride in being a resource for you and your children as you begin the often-challenging process of ending a marriage or securing the custody agreement you need. I want to know about your problems and give you the answers to your most pressing questions, such as:
How can I get full custody of my child?
Full custody of a child is not necessarily always possible under Florida law for every situation. If you only want full custody because of your conflict and anger toward your ex, that’s unlikely to be a compelling argument in court. However, full custody of your children is possible if it is in the best interests of your child.
While the court looks at many potential factors when measuring the child’s best interests, the most compelling factor is the potential safety failures of your ex. If they are abusive or irresponsible or addicted to drugs or involved in criminal activity, you can easily advocate for full custody. But no matter the circumstances, the pursuit of full custody will be an early discussion between you and I.
What factors does the court consider when determining child custody arrangements?
The court focuses on the child’s best interests, considering factors like:
- Parental Fitness: Health and stability of each parent.
- Child’s Preference: Depending on age and maturity.
- Parent-Child Relationship: Emotional bond and nurturing ability.
- Stability: Continuity in education and home life.
- History of Abuse or Neglect: Evaluating any history of violence.
- Co-Parenting Ability: Willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
These ensure the custody arrangement promotes the child’s safety and well-being.
What is legal custody of a child?
Legal custody of a child is the decision-making power over a child. Florida strives, wherever possible, to have joint legal custody of all shared children, meaning both parents have a say in such issues as medical care, educational opportunities and religious upbringing.
Be The Parent You Want To Be
When you’re ready to take the next step and secure your space and time as a parent, reach out to me I am dedicated and thorough and ready to get to work. Call me today at 863-410-0041 or send an email using this online form.