The beginning of a new year is one of the most common times people begin searching for answers about divorce, child custody, and paternity law in Florida. Once the Florida Divorce and Paternity Lawyer: What You Should Know at the Start of the New Year
If you are searching for a Florida divorce and paternity lawyer, the beginning of a new year is often when unresolved issues around divorce, child custody, and parental rights come to the surface. Once the holidays end and daily routines resume, many parents realize that informal arrangements or unresolved conflicts are no longer sustainable.
Whether you are considering divorce or dealing with paternity issues, understanding Florida law before taking action can protect your children, your finances, and your future.
Florida Divorce and Paternity Lawyer Insight: Why Timing Matters
January consistently sees an increase in divorce and custody filings across Florida. However, divorce and paternity cases are not driven by emotion alone—they are governed by legal standards that can permanently affect your rights.
Florida courts focus on:
- Equitable distribution of marital assets and debts
- Parenting plans and time-sharing schedules
- The best interests of the child, not parental preferences
Early mistakes—such as moving out without a plan, relying on verbal parenting agreements, or failing to gather financial documentation—can weaken your position and be difficult to reverse.
Speaking with an experienced Florida divorce and paternity lawyer early allows you to make informed decisions instead of reactive ones.
Learn more about divorce representation here:
👉 https://www.vdtlaw.com/divorce
Florida Child Custody and Time-Sharing: Common Misconceptions
Myth #1: Florida Automatically Orders 50/50 Custody
Florida law does not guarantee equal time-sharing. Courts evaluate what arrangement best serves the child, considering factors such as:
- Each parent’s historical involvement
- Ability to co-parent and communicate
- Stability of each household
- Decision-making history
Without a court-approved parenting plan, one parent may legally control access to the child.
Myth #2: Verbal Agreements Are Enforceable
Informal or handshake parenting agreements are not enforceable in Florida family court.
Florida judges rely on written parenting plans consistent with Florida Statute §61.13, which governs custody and time-sharing determinations.
👉 https://www.leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
Learn more about custody and time-sharing:
👉 https://www.vdtlaw.com/child-custody-timesharing
Florida Paternity Lawyer Guidance for Unmarried Parents
Paternity law is one of the most misunderstood areas of Florida family law.
Under Florida law:
- A mother has sole parental responsibility when a child is born outside of marriage
- A father has no enforceable parental rights until paternity is legally established
- Paying child support does not create custody or time-sharing rights
Delaying action can significantly limit a father’s ability to seek meaningful parenting time later.
If you are an unmarried parent, speaking with a Florida divorce and paternity lawyer early is critical.
Learn more about paternity cases:
👉 https://www.vdtlaw.com/paternity
Florida Fathers: Your Parental Rights Are NOT Automatic
If you are a father of a child born outside of marriage, Florida law does not automatically protect your relationship with your child.
Until paternity is legally established:
- You can be denied access at any time
- You may have no say in education, healthcare, or religion
- The mother may relocate without your consent
Waiting is the fastest way to lose leverage.
Establishing paternity allows fathers to:
- Seek court-ordered time-sharing
- Request shared parental responsibility
- Prevent relocation without court approval
- Create enforceable parenting rights
Learn more about father’s rights in Florida:
👉 https://www.vdtlaw.com/fathers-rights
Common Mistakes Parents Make at the Start of the Year
- Waiting too long to consult a Florida divorce and paternity lawyer
- Allowing one parent to establish the child’s routine unilaterally
- Relying on informal agreements
- Failing to document parenting involvement
- Ignoring financial preparation before divorce
Once a parenting “status quo” is established, Florida courts are reluctant to disrupt it.
Serving Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties
Law Office of Vanessa D. Torres, P.A. serves families throughout Miami-Dade County, Broward County, and Palm Beach County, including:
- Coral Gables
- Miami
- Doral
- Aventura
- Fort Lauderdale
- Hollywood
- Weston
- Boca Raton
- Delray Beach
- West Palm Beach
If you are searching for a Florida divorce and paternity lawyer in South Florida, local experience matters.
Speak With a Florida Divorce and Paternity Lawyer Today
You do not need to have everything figured out before speaking with an attorney. You need accurate information and a clear understanding of your rights.
Whether you are considering divorce, facing a custody dispute, or seeking to establish paternity, Law Office of Vanessa D. Torres, P.A. can help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
📍 Serving Miami-Dade, Broward & Palm Beach Counties
📞 Confidential consultations available
📅 In-person and phone appointments
The earlier you act, the stronger your position will be.
