Florida Child Custody Laws
Florida Child Custody Issues & Resources
Florida Child Custody
The Court will award custody based upon "the best interests of the child". In determining best interests, the Court will consider the following:
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the moral character and prudence of the parents;
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the capability and desire of each parent to meet the child's needs;
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preference of the child, if the child is of sufficient age and capacity;
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the love and affection existing between the child and each parent;
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the length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment and the desirability of maintaining continuity;
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the desire and ability of each parent to allow an open and loving frequent relationship between the child and the other parent;
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the child's adjustment to his or her home, school, and community;
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the mental and physical health of the parents;
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the material needs of the child;
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the stability of the home environment likely to be offered by each parent;
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any evidence of spouse abuse; and
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any other relevant factors.
Somewhat unique to Florida is the written requirement that a parent, or grandparents, infection with HIV cannot be used as a basis to deny custody or visitation.
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