Child Custody Lawyer in Sarasota
Guiding Families Through Custody Matters with Experience and Care
Few issues in family law are as emotionally charged as child custody. Parents often worry about losing precious time with their children and facing arrangements that don’t reflect the realities of their family life. The process can be stressful under any circumstances, especially without clear guidance from an experienced and compassionate lawyer. That’s where we come in.
With almost 20 years of experience practicing family law, our firm has helped parents across Sarasota and Manatee County protect their parental rights and build parenting plans that work.
We help clients understand the different types of custody. Physical custody refers to where a child primarily lives, while legal custody relates to decision-making power over matters such as education, religious upbringing, and healthcare. Courts may award joint custody, where both parents share responsibilities, or sole custody, where one parent holds primary authority. These differing factors are often important in setting realistic goals for your case.
The team at Alpert Law believes that effective solutions usually come from collaboration rather than conflict. That’s why we strive to resolve family law matters through constructive negotiation first, aiming to save clients both time and stress. However, when litigation becomes necessary, our team is fully prepared to advocate in court. Throughout the process, we offer clear communication and honest advice so you can move forward with confidence.
When you work with a child custody attorney at our firm, we take time to learn the details of your family’s history, your child’s needs, and any concerns you have about the other parent. We then explain how Florida’s time-sharing and parental responsibility laws may apply in your situation, and what to expect if your case is heard at the Sarasota County courthouse or in nearby Manatee County. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions at every step, whether you are beginning a new case or seeking to modify an existing order.
Our office is right down the road from Gillespie Park, located on US-301 with easy access to I-75. We understand that life is busy and often complicated during family transitions, so we offer the option to meet either in person or virtually, whatever fits your schedule.
Protect your parental rights today. Schedule a consultation online or call us at (941) 208-9352 to speak with an experienced Sarasota child custody lawyer.
Factors That Influence Child Custody Decisions in Sarasota, Florida
Florida courts place the child’s best interests above all else. Factors considered to make this determination include:
- The parent-child relationship. Courts look at the quality of the child’s relationship with each parent, including emotional bonds, daily involvement, and stability. A strong, supportive connection with the child often carries significant weight.
- Parental responsibilities. Judges evaluate each parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs. This includes financial support, day-to-day caregiving, ensuring school attendance, and providing a safe home environment.
- Communication and cooperation. Courts may favor a willingness to facilitate a positive relationship with the other parent. A refusal to communicate or constant conflict can negatively impact custody decisions.
- Stability and continuity. The court often seeks to minimize disruption in the child’s life. Maintaining consistent schooling, community ties, and familiar living arrangements may influence outcomes.
- Health and safety. Any history of domestic violence, substance abuse, or unsafe living conditions will weigh heavily in this decision. Protecting the child’s physical and emotional safety is always the top priority.
- Child’s preference. In certain cases, depending on the child’s age and maturity, the court may consider the child’s own wishes regarding custody and visitation.
Because every family is different, a child custody attorney Sarasota parents trust will look closely at the specific facts of your case, including school schedules, work hours, and your child’s activities. We can help you prepare for hearings or mediation by gathering documents, organizing your thoughts, and understanding how judges in Sarasota and Manatee counties typically approach issues like shared parental responsibility and time-sharing. This preparation can give you a clearer picture of what is realistic and what steps you can take to support your child’s long-term well-being.
Modifying Or Enforcing Existing Custody Orders
Life rarely stays the same after a parenting plan is first created. Parents change jobs, children grow older, and new relationships or health issues can affect what works day to day. When these changes make your current court order unworkable, we can guide you through the process of seeking a modification in the Sarasota County or Manatee County courts. We explain what types of changes may qualify as substantial enough to revisit time-sharing or decision-making, and what evidence can help the judge understand why an adjustment may now be in your child’s best interests.
Sometimes the problem is not the terms of the order, but one parent’s failure to follow it. In those situations, working with a child custody lawyer Sarasota families rely on can help you pursue enforcement options while still focusing on your child’s stability and safety. Depending on your circumstances, this might include documenting missed visits, late pick-ups, or interference with communication, and asking the court to step in if cooperative solutions have not worked. Our role is to help you address these issues calmly and strategically, so you can protect your relationship with your child without escalating conflict more than necessary.
Contact Us About Your Custody Case
If you need guidance on modifying or enforcing a custody order, our Sarasota team is here to help. We take the time to understand your family’s unique situation and explain your options clearly. You can schedule a consultation online or speak with us directly by phone. Our goal is to provide practical, compassionate support while helping you navigate the complexities of custody matters. We work closely with each client to develop strategies that prioritize your child’s well-being and maintain stability for your family.
Get guidance on your child custody case today. Call (941) 208-9352 or schedule a consultation online with our Sarasota child custody attorney.