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Father Visitation Rights

Father visitation rights in Florida have been replaced by parenting rights, giving them equal opportunity for time with their children. In a divorce, visitation is no longer an issue, because a recent change in family law gives both parents equal status and, in most cases, the child is not considered to be under the custody of just one parent.

Only when it’s not in the child’s best interest for both parents to have equal parenting rights does one parent receive child custody. Attorneys representing men, like Matthew P. Irwin, recognize that there are still many prejudices against men in divorce situations, but now the law more strongly supports their clients.

Father visitation rights in Florida have been replaced by parenting rights, giving them equal opportunity for time with their children. In a divorce, visitation is no longer an issue, because a recent change in family law gives both parents equal status and, in most cases, the child is not considered to be under the custody of just one parent. Only when it’s not in the child’s best interest for both parents to have equal parenting rights does one parent receive child custody.

Attorneys representing men, like Matthew P. Irwin recognize that there are still many prejudices against men in divorce situations, but now the law more strongly supports their clients.

Changes in Florida family law, which took effect in 2008, actually abolished the terms “custody” and “visitation.” Instead, divorced or separated couples with children develop Timesharing plans or Parenting plans that reduce the need to fight for a father’s visitation rights. These plans provide a detailed outline of which expenses and care needs each parent is responsible for.

They also clarify how much time the child will spend with each parent and when the child will be with each parent. Generally, unless circumstances dictate otherwise, the child is considered to live with both parents and the parents have joint child custody. Attorneys usually help the parents negotiate Timesharing or Parenting plans, so they can help the parents understand the rules, protect their rights, and minimize emotional outbursts and reactions that can stall the process.

One of the most important things a father can do to protect his rights regarding time with his child is be willing to confer with the child’s mother and make reasonable concessions when planning the parenting schedule. Parents who make unreasonable demands or won’t negotiate often find their stubbornness works against them in court. Stubbornness can be an indicator of someone who is not likely to adhere to the parenting plan and other court orders.

In such a case, the court may find it is in the child’s best interest to limit the child’s time with that parent. You can protect your rights to time with your child by being calm, reasonable and willing to negotiate.

Discuss Father Visitation Rights & Your Case with a Highly-qualified Men’s Rights Attorney

In dealing with issues of divorce, visitation and child custody, an attorney’s experience and knowledge of child timesharing law is invaluable. We are happy to talk with you about your situation.

If you have any questions about your Florida divorce or would like a Consultation, please call us at 866-995-0166 or email us today.

More Help in Understanding Father Visitation Rights:

You can find more information on visitation rights, divorce, and custody issues on our Free Resources page. The links below will take you to articles on subjects related to divorce, visitation and custody:

• Father’s Rights
• Divorce
• Child Custody
• Visitation
• Child Support

About The Author

The Men's Rights Law Firm is a Cape Coral, Florida family law attorney focused on protecting men's rights in divorce and custody cases. His first client was himself, winning custody of his kids in his own divorce case without the help of an attorney. Since then, Mr. Irwin has gone on to help hundreds of men protect their rights in cases involving child custody, child support, paternity, divorce and other family law matters.

He also plays an influential role advocating men's rights in Florida legislation, appellate decisions and local government programs. Please visit Mr. Irwin's family law blog to stay updated on family law matters in Florida and throughout the United States.

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