Sarasota Family LawChild Custody
Sarasota Child Custody Lawyer
When your child’s future is on the line, finding the right Sarasota child custody lawyer can make all the difference. Navigating custody disputes is emotionally and legally complex — a journey filled with high stakes and difficult decisions. Whether you’re seeking to establish custody, modify an existing arrangement, or enforce your rights as a parent, McNary Law stands ready to provide compassionate, strategic guidance to protect your child’s best interests.
Serving families across Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and the surrounding areas, our team brings experience, empathy, and unwavering advocacy to every custody case.
Understanding Child Custody in Florida
Child custody in Florida isn’t just about who the child lives with — it’s about shaping a child’s upbringing, emotional well-being, and security. Florida law refers to custody in terms of parental responsibility and time-sharing, promoting the idea that children benefit most when both parents play active roles.
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Parental Responsibility vs. Time-Sharing
Parental Responsibility refers to a parent’s authority to make important decisions regarding the child’s education, healthcare, religion, and general welfare.
Time-Sharing outlines where the child will live and how much time they spend with each parent, based on a detailed parenting plan.
Florida courts typically favor shared parental responsibility, barring evidence that it would be detrimental to the child.
Factors Courts Consider in Child Custody Cases
Florida courts prioritize the best interests of the child, evaluating several key factors, including:
Each parent’s ability to provide a stable, nurturing environment
Moral fitness of the parents
Mental and physical health of both parents
The child’s school and community connections
The child’s reasonable preference (depending on age and maturity)
Evidence of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect
No two cases are identical, which is why having a skilled Sarasota child custody lawyer is crucial to navigate the nuances.
Common Child Custody Disputes We Handle
At McNary Law, we assist with a wide range of child custody-related matters:
Initial Custody Determinations
Helping you establish custody arrangements during divorce or between unmarried parents.
Modifications of Custody Orders
When life changes — a new job, relocation, or changing needs of the child — we help you seek or oppose custody modifications.
Parental Relocation
If you or your co-parent wishes to move more than 50 miles away, Florida law requires specific procedures and court approval. We help ensure compliance and fight for your parental rights.
Enforcement of Custody Orders
When a parent violates the custody arrangement, we move swiftly to protect your rights and uphold court orders.
Emergency Custody
In cases of danger or abuse, we act quickly to secure emergency custody orders to protect your child.
Navigating Parenting Plans and Time-Sharing Agreements
Every Florida custody case requires a parenting plan. A comprehensive parenting plan must address:
A detailed time-sharing schedule
Decision-making authority
Communication methods between parents and children
Transportation arrangements for time-sharing exchanges
An experienced Sarasota child custody lawyer can ensure your parenting plan is thorough, realistic, and in your child’s best interests.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody in Florida
Can a child choose which parent to live with?
Florida courts may consider a child’s preference, especially if the child is mature enough, but it’s just one of many factors.
What if the other parent isn’t following the custody agreement?
You can petition the court to enforce the agreement. Violating a court order can lead to serious legal consequences.
How does domestic violence affect custody?
Evidence of domestic violence can heavily impact custody decisions and may result in supervised visitation or sole custody for the other parent.
Is joint custody always 50/50?
Not necessarily. “Joint custody” means shared parental responsibility, but time-sharing may vary based on the child’s best interests and logistical factors.
Can custody be modified later?
Yes. Custody arrangements can be modified if there’s a substantial, material, and unforeseen change in circumstances.
Why Choose McNary Law for Your Sarasota Child Custody Case?
At McNary Law, we believe child custody is too important to leave to chance. We offer:
Personalized, empathetic counsel for families facing emotionally charged transitions
Aggressive advocacy when litigation is necessary
Creative solutions through negotiation, mediation, or collaborative law
Comprehensive family law support, including divorce, child support, and modifications
Our service areas include Bradenton, Lakewood Ranch, Sarasota, and nearby communities. Whether you’re initiating a custody case or facing an urgent dispute, our team is here to protect what matters most: your relationship with your child.
Related Practice Areas
In addition to child custody, McNary Law also provides support for:
Divorce
Child Support
Child Relocation
Family Law Mediator
Modifications
Contact a Trusted Sarasota Child Custody Lawyer Today
When your child’s future is at stake, you deserve a legal team that will stand by you with strength, compassion, and determination. Let McNary Law help you navigate your child custody journey with confidence and care.
Contact us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
