Domestic Violence Affect Parenting
Domestic violence affects families from all walks of life. It’s a serious problem that has long-term negative effects on the lives of those involved. This is especially true for children.
In Florida, as is the case in most states, co-parenting responsibilities are determined based on the child’s best interests. This includes taking into account any history of domestic violence. If you are concerned about your parenting time in a situation involving domestic violence, it’s important to understand how the court may approach the matter.
What do you need to know about how domestic violence affects a parenting plan?
Safety and Well-being of the Child
In Florida, the court prioritizes the safety and well-being of the child in all family law decisions. If there is a history of domestic violence, the court may restrict timesharing.
Additionally, the court may order supervised visitation or impose other restrictions to minimize the child’s exposure to potential harm.
Evidence
Unfortunately, some people make false accusations against their child’s other parent out of spite. The court must consider the legitimacy of domestic violence accusations when making decisions about the time a child spends with each parent.
Evidence is a crucial factor in determining parenting time issues. Evidence of physical abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect may be provided by the victim, witnesses, or law enforcement records. The court will evaluate all evidence presented to determine the overall reliability and credibility of each parent’s claims.
Submitting evidence of domestic abuse to the court can be challenging. It might also involve discussion with law enforcement and other officials. An attorney can support you during this process and ensure that your rights are protected. Geller Family Law can help you gather and submit evidence that supports your claims.
False Allegations
It’s important to note that making false allegations of domestic violence in an attempt to gain an advantage in family law proceedings can have severe consequences. This can include a loss of co-parenting rights, fines, and even criminal charges.
Domestic violence is an emotional situation for anyone affected. Often, there can be confusion and misunderstandings. Working with an attorney ensures that anything you submit to or say to the court supports your claims and protects your child.
Legal Representation
If you’re concerned about custody in a domestic violence situation, seeking legal representation as soon as possible is essential. The experienced attorneys at Geller Family Law can help you gather and present evidence in court and protect your rights and your child’s best interests. This is the case whether you’re dealing with domestic violence that affects you or your child, or if you’re a parent falsely accused of domestic violence.
Resources for Domestic Violence Victims
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, there are resources available to help. These resources include hotlines, shelters, counseling services, and legal advocacy. It’s crucial to seek help as quickly as possible to minimize the risk of harm to you and your children.
Domestic violence can have serious consequences for families in Florida. If you’re concerned about timesharing in a situation involving domestic violence, it’s essential to understand the impact this can have on custody proceedings. Seeking the help of an experienced attorney and utilizing available resources can help protect your rights and your child’s safety.
If you need assistance with an issue related to co-parenting or you’re considering divorce, we can help. Contact Geller Family Law at (813) 405-1509.