Child Custody & Parenting Plans in Florida

Miami Child Custody Attorneys

Few issues in family law are as emotional and impactful as child custody. Whether you’re going through a divorce or seeking to modify an existing arrangement, you need experienced legal guidance that protects both your parental rights and your child’s best interests.

At Rier Jordan P.A., our Miami child custody lawyers help parents throughout Florida navigate complex custody disputes, parenting plans, and time-sharing schedules. We focus on achieving fair, practical outcomes that allow your family to move forward with stability and respect.

Florida Child Custody Laws Explained

Florida law no longer uses the term “custody.” Instead, courts refer to “parental responsibility” and “time-sharing.”

• Parental Responsibility: Refers to who makes major decisions about the child’s education, healthcare, and welfare.

• Time-Sharing: Refers to the schedule that determines when the child spends time with each parent.

Courts generally favor shared parental responsibility — meaning both parents continue to play an active role in their child’s life — unless there’s evidence that shared responsibility would be harmful.

Our attorneys help you understand how Florida’s custody laws apply to your case and build a strategy aligned with your goals.

The Parenting Plan Requirement

In every Florida case involving minor children, the court requires a Parenting Plan.
This plan outlines:

• Each parent’s time-sharing schedule

• Methods for communicating with the child

• Responsibility for school, healthcare, and activities

• Transportation and exchange details

• Holiday and vacation arrangements

We draft and negotiate detailed Parenting Plans that protect your parental rights and provide clarity to prevent future disputes.

Types of Custody Arrangements in Florida

We help you pursue a custody arrangement that supports your child’s needs while protecting your role as a parent.

Factors Courts Consider in Custody Cases

Under Florida Statute §61.13, courts evaluate multiple factors to determine what’s in the child’s best interests, including:

• Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs

• The emotional bond between parent and child

• Stability of the home environment

• Each parent’s mental and physical health

• History of domestic violence or substance abuse

• Willingness to encourage a positive relationship with the other parent

Our attorneys gather and present evidence demonstrating your fitness, involvement, and commitment as a parent.

Custody Disputes & Litigation

While many cases resolve through negotiation or mediation, some require courtroom litigation.
When disputes arise, Rier Jordan P.A. provides aggressive yet professional representation in:

• Initial custody determinations

• Modifications of existing parenting plans

• Relocation petitions (moving more than 50 miles)

• Enforcement or contempt actions

• Emergency motions for child safety

We approach every case strategically — balancing firmness with empathy — to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your child.

Modification of Custody or Parenting Plans

Life changes. Job relocations, new relationships, or a child’s evolving needs may require modifications to an existing parenting plan.
To modify custody in Florida, you must show a “substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances.”

We help clients petition for or defend against modifications — ensuring that your new arrangement remains fair, enforceable, and in your child’s best interests.

Protecting Fathers’ and Mothers’ Rights

Florida law treats both parents equally, but real-world custody outcomes can vary.
Our firm proudly represents both fathers and mothers in asserting their parental rights — whether that means securing equal time-sharing, protecting children from unsafe environments, or ensuring fair decision-making authority.

We believe every parent deserves a meaningful relationship with their child.

Why Choose Rier Jordan P.A.

• Experienced in High-Conflict Custody & Divorce Cases

• Skilled in Mediation and Family Court Litigation

• Focused on the Best Interests of the Child

• Respected by Miami-Dade and Broward Family Law Judges

• Compassionate, Confidential Guidance for Every Client

From negotiation to trial, we protect what matters most — your child and your parental rights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child choose which parent to live with?
Florida courts may consider a child’s preference if they are mature enough, but it is not the deciding factor.

Do mothers automatically get custody in Florida?
No. Florida law does not favor either parent based on gender. Both parents have equal rights under the law.

Can I move out of state with my child?
Not without court approval. Florida’s relocation laws require notice and consent or a court order.

Can custody orders be changed later?
Yes, if there is a significant change in circumstances affecting the child’s well-being.

Do I need a lawyer for custody cases?
Yes. Even amicable cases can quickly become complex. An experienced attorney ensures your rights are protected and your parenting plan is enforceable.

Contact Our Miami Child Custody Lawyers

When your child’s future is on the line, trust the team with the experience and dedication to fight for your family.

At Rier Jordan P.A., we help parents throughout Florida establish, modify, and enforce custody and time-sharing arrangements.

📞 Call (305) 899-1212
📍 Rier Jordan P.A. | 11900 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 510, Miami, FL 33181
💻 Request a Confidential Consultation

Let’s protect your parental rights — and your child’s best interests — together.