In determining that a parent is unfit, the court must find that the parent has abused, abandoned, or neglected the child, as defined in chapter 39. (4) The order granting: (a) Concurrent custody of the minor child may not eliminate or diminish the custodial rights of the child's parent or parents.
However, most judges will take into account a child's preference around the age of 12 or 13, along with other factors such as the child's intelligence, maturity, child's experiences with each parent and whether the child understands the decision being made.
What Can Be Used Against You in a Florida Child Custody Battle? Domestic Violence and Child Abuse. Alcohol Abuse and Drug Abuse. Missing Child Support Payments. Criticizing the Other Parent in Front of the Child. Parental Alienation. Violating Court Orders. Showing up to Court Proceedings Unprepared.
Demonstrate a willingness to cooperate and foster a positive co-parenting relationship. Be respectful in your communication with the other parent and prioritize the best interests of your child. Avoid engaging in confrontations or negative behavior, as it can negatively impact your case.
Stay Objective: Focus on the parent's qualities and behaviors rather than personal opinions about the custody situation. Keep It Professional: Maintain a respectful and formal tone throughout the letter. Length: Aim for one page; be concise but thorough in your observations.
The affidavit should explicitly discuss how the arrangement aligns with the best interests of the child by protecting his or her health, safety and overall well-being. Supporting facts: details about the preferred arrangement and evidence or documentation proving the individual's ability to meet the child's needs.
Factors judges consider when determining parental fitness include, but are not limited to: Allegations or evidence of a parent's substance abuse. A parent's mental and physical well-being and moral fitness. Evidence of domestic violence, neglect, or child abuse.
Content of a character reference letter for custody Introduction. Relationship to the parent: Describe how the writer knows the parent, including how long they have known each other. Body. Parenting skills: Detail the parent's interactions with their child, noting examples of nurturing, guidance, and care. Conclusion.