Practice Center Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence and Child Custody

Under state law, domestic violence charges should be considered by the court before making any decisions regarding child custody. Thus, those who have been charged with domestic violence may be denied custody rights altogether or granted limited, supervised visitation with their children. Contact Law Offices of Richard W. Springer, P.A. in West Palm Beach, Florida, today to schedule a consultation with an attorney to learn how domestic violence charges may affect the outcome of your child custody proceedings.

The Best interests of the child standard

The guiding principle used by courts in child custody cases is the best interests of the child. The court will perform an analysis of several factors to determine in each custody case what will be the best custody outcome for the child. Some of these factors include:

Each parent's wishes
The child's wishes
Interaction and interrelationships between the child and each parent and any other siblings or family members
The child's adjustment to the home, school and community
The mental and physical health of the child and parents

Domestic violence as a factor in child custody proceedings

Every state requires courts to consider domestic violence allegations or charges prior to making custody determinations. Many states have adopted the language of the Model Code on Domestic and Family Violence, which creates a presumption that it is not in the best interests of the child to grant sole or joint custody to the parent charged with domestic violence.

This presumption may be rebutted under certain circumstances, such as cases where the abuser successfully completed a batterer's treatment program, an alcohol or drug abuse counseling program or a parenting class. Also, a court will consider the number of incidents of domestic violence and the proximity of the incidents to the custody proceedings.

Generally, courts favor custody arrangements which allow children to maintain healthy relationships with both parents. However, in cases were domestic violence occurred or has been alleged, the court may determine it is in the child's best interests to have no or very limited time with the abusive parent.

Speak to a domestic violence lawyer

A domestic violence allegation, arrest or conviction can complicate child custody issues. Contact an experienced attorney at Law Offices of Richard W. Springer, P.A. in West Palm Beach, Florida, today to schedule a consultation with an attorney to learn more about your options for maintaining a relationship with your child.

DISCLAIMER: This site and any information contained herein are intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Seek competent legal counsel for advice on any legal matter.

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The Law Offices of Richard W. Springer, P.A.
3003 S. Congress Avenue Suite 1A
Palm Springs FL 33461
Phone: 561-291-8102
Toll-Free: 800-632-6421
Fax: 561-433-9522
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For over 30 years, the Law Offices of Richard W. Springer, P.A. has provided skilled criminal defense representation for clients in West Palm Beach, Miami-Dade, Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Davie, Coral Springs, Palm Bay, Melbourne, Titusville, Daytona Beach, Orlando, Kissimmee, Broward, Monroe, Martin, St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Indian River, Lee, Henry, Sarasota, Manatee, Hillsborough, Osceola, Pinellas, Orange, Volusia, Leon, Escambia, Palm Beach County, Martin County, Broward County, Brevard County, and Orange County in Florida (FL). In addition, the Law Offices of Richard W. Springer, P.A. also represents college students from area universities including Florida Atlantic University, Lynn University, the University of Miami, Palm Beach Atlantic, Palm Beach Community College and students from other universities and colleges who may encounter legal troubles while in the Miami-Dade area on spring break.

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