Child Custody and Visitation:

During a dissolution of marriage or a paternity case where minor children are involved two issues must be decided, parental responsibility and time sharing.

Parental Responsibility:

The legal rights and responsibilities the parent has in respect to their child(ren).  This covers everything from decisions on the child(ren)’s health care, general welfare, and anything else unique to a particular family.  By default, the parental responsibility is shared between both parents, but the court may award ultimate or sole decision making ability to one parent when it is in the child(ren)’s best interest.

Time-sharing:

Is the custody arrangement that specifies the time the minor child(ren) will spend with each parent.

Mandatory Parenting Plans:

The law regarding child custody recently changed and went into effect this past October 2008.  Now, every divorce with minor child(ren) must have a detailed parenting plan that addresses the parential responsibility rights of each parent and the time sharing arrangement.  The Sarasota and Manatee County Court (12th Judicial Circuit) developed four different parenting plans, all designed to suit different family situations.  Although there is never a one size fits all remedy for any family, these plans are highy customizable and offer great starting points for parents trying to develop a workable time sharing schedule. Follow this link for the 12th Judicial Circuit's Parenting Plans.

Call The Switlyk Law Firm to schedule your consultation with one of our experienced child custody attorneys.