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Family Law Made Easy

Spouses, parents and children may find themselves in the need of legal help when it comes to issues involving their families. Family law encompasses a broad range of legal topics, including divorce, child custody and support, adoption and paternity disputes. To learn more about family law in Florida, visit our page on family law in Florida.

The court’s decision on child custody and parenting time (visitation) will be based on the best interests of the child. The court will also consider:

The wishes of the child if he or she is mature enough to express an opinion.

The relationship between each parent and the child, including, but not limited to, a preference expressed by the child who is 14 years old or older.

If you’re the parent of a child that you’re not legally related to, for example due to a previous marriage or relationship, then you may be required to pay support. This legal obligation is called “child support.” In some cases, child support can also be ordered if you have children outside of your current relationship but are still obligated financially because of this parental role.

The amount of child support owed by one parent depends on their income and how many children they have with their partner.

The legal relationship that exists between a child and his or her father is known as paternity. The law presumes that the husband of a woman who gives birth to a child is the father. However, this presumption can be challenged if there are clear reasons why it should not apply in the case of that particular child.

Paternity can be established by court order, or it can be established voluntarily by signing a Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity form (VAP). If you do not sign this form, your name will appear on your child’s birth certificate under “father” with no indication that you did not acknowledge being their biological parent.

If you are considering a change in custody or support, one of the most important considerations is whether a court will grant such a request. In general, a party may not seek an order modifying or amending its original order unless there has been a substantial change in circumstances. There are three basic types of changes that will generally suffice to justify modification:

• A substantial change in the financial ability of the party seeking the modification;
• A substantial change in circumstances since entry of the original order; and
• The unjust enrichment or impoverishment of either parent due to changed circumstances since entry of their divorce decree/order.

Family law encompasses a broad range of legal topics. Family law is a general term that encompasses a broad range of legal topics, including divorce, child custody, marriage and adoption.

The family law attorneys at Hiddleston, Robbins and Riddle have years of experience handling cases involving a wide range of issues. We will work hard to protect your rights and help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case.