Tampa Visitation & Parental Rights Attorneys Advocating for You

Florida Bar Board-Certified Family Lawyer for Parenting Time Solutions

In Tampa, a city of about 360,000 people, about 14 percent of the adult population is divorced and another four percent are separated. Many of those adults are parents with children under the age of 18, and, like you, they must deal with conflicts over co-parenting and time-sharing. So, if you are having issues related to visitation, you are certainly not alone. At Sessums Law Group, we regularly help our Tampa clients assert their parental rights. We also provide representation for grandparents who, through no fault of their own, have been cut off from their grandchildren. When it comes to your relationship with your children, you want the finest legal representation available. When you retain our services, you get personal counsel from a Florida Bar board-certified family law attorney who pursues effective remedies capably and aggressively.

Understanding Your Visitation Rights as a Tampa Parent

Florida family law has gotten away from the term “visitation,” which tends to imply the noncustodial parent has a diminished role in the life of the child. Parents who are not in a position to provide a residence for the child can still retain joint legal custody, or “shared decision-making responsibility,” with the other parent. Therefore, you also have the right to:

• Receive timely information pertinent to your child’s health, education and welfare
• Interact with your child’s physician(s), teachers, coaches, pastor, and so on
• Attend your child’s activities
• Be designated an emergency contact for your child
• Withhold consent for medical, dental or surgical treatment

You also have the right to frequent, meaningful contact with your child. Whether you are going through a divorce or have never been married to the child’s custodial parent, you have the right to ask the court for a child custody order that upholds your parental rights.

What You Need to Know About Termination of Parental Rights

Under certain circumstances, a court can terminate a parent’s legal right to have a relationship with the child when that relationship could put the child at risk. That determination would be made during a hearing where evidence of domestic violence, sexual abuse, immoral lifestyle, or substance abuse demonstrates that continued contact with the parent would be detrimental to the child’s health and welfare.   In other cases, a parent may voluntarily relinquish parental rights to allow the child to be adopted. A parent whose rights have been terminated no longer has a responsibility for the child, so orders for child support are also terminated.

Parental Rights of Unwed Fathers in Florida

Unwed fathers are responsible for providing support for their children, but they can also sue to have their parental rights honored. A court can grant an unwed father parenting time, including overnights, as well as decision-making authority. However, unlike married fathers who have presumed rights, unwed fathers must take specific legal steps to be recognized as fathers before their rights can be enforced.

Grandparents' Visitation Rights in Florida Explained

Grandparents have very limited statutory rights to visit with their grandchildren. Under Florida law, grandparents have rights if both parents are deceased, missing, or in a persistent vegetative state, or if those circumstances apply to one parent while the other parent has been convicted of a felony or violent crime or poses a substantial threat to the welfare of the child. When even one parent is present and sound, grandparents have no statutory rights to visitation with their grandchildren if that parent denies them access.

Tampa Visitation & Parental Rights FAQs

What are parental visitation rights?

Parental visitation rights refer to a parent's legal ability to spend time with their child, as determined by a court order or parenting plan. These rights typically apply in cases where parents are divorced, separated, or otherwise living apart, ensuring that both parents maintain a meaningful relationship with their child.

How are visitation schedules determined in Tampa?

Visitation schedules are typically arranged during the creation of a parenting plan, which is approved by the court. Factors considered include the child’s best interests, school schedule, the parents’ work commitments, and the distance between their residences. Florida law encourages arrangements that allow both parents to remain actively involved in their child's life.

Can visitation schedules be modified?

Yes, visitation schedules can be modified if there’s a significant change in circumstances. Common reasons include changes in a parent's work schedule, relocation, or evolving needs of the child. To modify an agreement, you’ll need to petition the court and demonstrate that the adjustment is in the best interest of the child.

What happens if one parent violates a visitation agreement?

If a parent violates the terms of a visitation agreement, the other parent can petition the court for enforcement. Florida courts take violations seriously and may impose penalties, including makeup visitation time, fines, or, in extreme cases, modifications to the parenting plan.

How can disputes over parental rights and visitation be resolved?

Disputes may be resolved through mediation, where parents work with a neutral third party to reach an agreement. If mediation fails, the court will decide based on the child’s best interests. Having a skilled attorney by your side is crucial to presenting a strong case and finding the best resolution for your family.

Can visitation be denied in certain circumstances?

Visitation can only be denied or restricted if the court determines that spending time with a particular parent poses a risk to the child's well-being. This may involve cases of abuse, neglect, or other unsafe behaviors. Even then, courts often consider supervised visitation options to maintain the parent-child relationship.

What are parental responsibilities in Florida child custody cases?

Florida law emphasizes shared parental responsibility, meaning both parents are typically expected to collaborate on major decisions regarding education, healthcare, and the child's upbringing. However, in some cases, one parent may be given sole decision-making authority if it’s determined that shared responsibility is not in the child’s best interest.

What is the role of an attorney in visitation and parental rights cases?

An attorney can provide support at every stage, from negotiating parenting plans to advocating for your rights in court. They’ll ensure your voice is heard, help you understand laws specific to Florida, and work tirelessly to protect your parental rights and the best interests of your child.

What should I do if my co-parent and I disagree on a parenting plan?

If you and your co-parent cannot agree on a parenting plan, the court will step in to decide. The court evaluates factors such as each parent’s involvement in the child’s life, the child’s relationship with each parent, and overall stability. Your attorney can advocate for your desired arrangements during these proceedings.

How do Florida courts determine the child's best interests?

Florida courts consider multiple factors to determine a child’s best interests, including the child’s age, emotional and physical needs, each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment, and the existing parent-child relationship. Courts strive to establish arrangements that promote the child’s well-being.

What if one parent plans to move out of Tampa or Florida?

If a parent wishes to relocate more than 50 miles away, they must seek court approval. The moving parent must prove that the relocation is in the child’s best interest and provide a proposed revised visitation schedule. The court considers factors like educational opportunities, family connections, and the impact on the non-relocating parent’s relationship with the child.

Can I develop a visitation agreement without going to court?

Yes, many parents reach an agreement through private discussion or mediation, allowing them to avoid litigation. However, it’s still important to have the arrangement reviewed and approved by the court to ensure it’s legally binding and enforceable.

If you need assistance navigating visitation and parental rights in Tampa, consulting an experienced attorney can make all the difference. They will guide you through the process and work to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Why Choose Sessums Law Group for Visitation & Parental Rights Representation in Tampa?

Finding the right legal representation for visitation and parental rights cases is crucial. Sessums Law Group stands out as a trusted partner for families in Tampa. 

Specialized Experience in Family Law: Extensive experience handling visitation and parental rights cases ensures we understand the intricacies of Florida’s legal system and can provide effective representation.

• Client-Centered Approach: We take the time to understand your unique situation and goals, tailoring strategies to meet your family's specific needs.
• Focus on the Child’s Best Interests: Protecting your child's well-being is our top priority as we work to secure arrangements that provide stability while fostering strong parent-child relationships.
• Skilled Negotiators and Litigators: Whether negotiating amicable solutions or advocating fiercely in court, our team is prepared to defend your rights at every stage.
• Compassionate and Professional Service: We provide empathetic support throughout this challenging process, ensuring you feel heard and respected every step of the way.
• Proven Track Record: With a history of successful outcomes, our reputation in Tampa is built on dedication to our clients and deep knowledge of family law.
• Guidance at Every Step: From crafting parenting plans to modifying or enforcing agreements, we stand by you through the entire legal process, making sure your rights are secured.

At Sessums Law Group, we’re committed to helping families find lasting resolutions. Take the first step toward protecting your parental rights and your family’s future.

Sessums Law Group represents parents and grandparents throughout the Tampa Bay area in custody and visitation disputes. We are determined to help you obtain a result that protects your parental rights. Please call (813) 212-8330 or contact us online to schedule an appointment at our Tampa visitation & parental rights attorneys.