Florida child custody and timesharing
Florida courts do not award “custody” in the older sense of a single winning parent. The court establishes parental responsibility and a parenting plan, including a timesharing schedule, based on the best interests of the child. The Bonderud Law Firm represents parents in original actions, modifications, relocation disputes, and related enforcement matters throughout Florida.
Parental responsibility and timesharing
Shared parental responsibility is the usual starting point, with possible exceptions when shared decision-making would be detrimental to the child. The parenting plan must address time with each parent and the major decisions in the child’s life. Section 61.13, Florida Statutes, lists the factors the court considers. Our related articles on parenting plans, relocation, and parental responsibility explain that framework in more detail.
Relocation out of the area has its own statutory process. Long-distance schedules, a new spouse, or allegations of alienation or domestic violence can change the evidence the court needs to see. We work from records and a realistic plan, not from slogans about “winning custody.”
When the facts are disputed
Some cases require a social investigation, a guardian ad litem, or a focused evaluation. Others are resolved when the parents can reach a durable agreement. We advise you on the process that actually fits the file, including how a related criminal or injunction case may affect timesharing.
To discuss a parenting matter, call (904) 438-8082 during office hours or write to us. This page is general information, not legal advice. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Questions we are often asked
What are the office hours?
The office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern, at 2130 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida 32204. Messages left after hours or on weekends are reviewed the next business day. For urgent matters, call (904) 438-8082.
Does contacting the firm create an attorney-client relationship?
No. Submitting this form or calling the office does not by itself create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send confidential information before an engagement is agreed. This website is general information, not legal advice.
Do you have more than one office?
No. The firm's only office is at 2130 Riverside Avenue, Jacksonville. We represent clients throughout Florida, and in selected federal matters elsewhere, from that office.