Broward County Child Custody Lawyer

Child custody arrangements are often a primary concern for a parent who going through a divorce or paternity action. Child custody arrangements can be reached in various ways, including through mediation and litigation. At the Law Offices of Jodie Bassichis, P.A., we represent parents throughout the process of reaching workable child custody arrangements.

Would you like to speak with an attorney about your child custody concerns? Please contact the Law Offices of Jodie Bassichis today to arrange your consultation.

Child custody vs. visitation

Child custody contains two parts, which are physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody is where the children live. Legal custody refers to the power to make important decisions in a child’s life, such as education, religion, health care and even after-school activities. Generally, parents are given Shared Parental Responsibility and a parent is designated as the primary residential parent. Parents may also be designated as co-primary residential parents as well. The noncustodial parent will likely spend time with the children during set visitation periods. Visitation can include weekends, holidays, summer vacations and other times that are pre-arranged. Additionally, arrangements for rotating custody are seen more and more in the legal system, which is case specific.

Mediating child custody arrangements

Attorney Jodie Bassichis was certified as a mediator by the Florida Supreme Court. Mediation can provide each party with an amicable environment in which to agree on child custody arrangements. Mediation can be particularly useful in decisions that directly impact the children. When an arrangement is made through mediation, parents are often able to continue communicating in a polite manner, which is always in the best interests of children during this time.

When determining child custody arrangements, the court considers the best interests of the children as the most important factor. Additionally, the courts encourage each parent to have a meaningful and healthy relationship with their children and foster a meaningful and healthy relationship with the other parent and the children.

For more information on how we can help with your child custody matters, contact our firm today.