Parentage & Children
Parentage and child related matters shape where a child lives, how decisions are made, and who has legal rights and duties under Florida law. At Epstein Family Law, P.A., our South Florida marital and family lawyer understands how strongly these cases affect daily family life and is ready to help clients across Broward, Palm Beach, and Miami-Dade
Paternity
A paternity case involves the establishment of a child’s legal father and may address child support, timesharing and decision-making authority. In Florida, paternity may need to be established as a matter of law before the court can enter certain orders involving the child.
Timesharing
Florida uses the term timesharing to describe the schedule for when a child spends time with each parent. In creating, approving or modifying parenting plans, courts are guided by the child’s best interests pursuant to Section 61.13, Florida Statutes.
Supervised Timesharing
Supervised timesharing may be ordered when there are concerns about a child’s safety, well-being, or emotional health. These arrangements can be temporary or longer term depending on the facts of the case.
Parental Responsibility
Parental responsibility addresses how major decisions affecting a child’s life are determined, including education, health care, and other important matters unique to each family. Florida courts may order shared parental responsibility or, in more limited circumstances, grant one parent sole decision-making authority or ultimate decision-making authority over specific issues.
Relocation
Under certain circumstances, a parent who wishes to relocate more than 50 miles from their current residence for at least 60 consecutive days must either obtain the other parent’s written consent or court approval under section 61.13001, Florida Statutes. Petitions for Relocation must be drafted in strict compliance with the statute and are given priority on the court’s docket. Relocation cases are highly fact-specific and focus on whether the proposed relocation is in the child’s best interests.
Disestablishment of Paternity
In some cases, a man may ask the court to disestablish paternity when legal requirements are met. Florida law sets specific conditions for these claims, including issues tied to newly discovered facts and child support.
Temporary or Concurrent Custody by Extended Family
Extended family members may seek temporary or concurrent custody in certain situations involving parental consent or serious concerns about a child’s care and stability.
Contact Epstein Family Law, P.A. Today
Parentage and child related cases can raise lasting questions about a child’s future, parental rights, and family stability. Jamie, our South Florida family attorney at Epstein Family Law, P.A. can help you address these issues with a clear, practical approach. Contact our office today for a consultation.