Parental Rights

Whether you are going through a divorce or are dealing with paternity or custody matters in a non-marital relationship, the way you resolve parental rights issues can have a profound impact for all parties involved.

At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, we help parents protect their rights while striving to avoid the negative consequences of a contentious dispute.

Divorcing or ending a non-marital relationship can have a significant impact on your children.

Not having a single residence and losing access to both parents day-in and day-out can often lead to feelings of stress, fear, and uncertainty that take months or even years to overcome.

At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, we know how important it is for children to have the support of both of their parents as they grow. This is why we strive to help divorcing and separating parents resolve their custody and parental responsibility issues in a quick, cost-effective, and amicable manner.

While we will fight to protect your rights, we will also strive to ensure that your children are affected by the process as minimally as possible.

Florida Law Views Each Parent Equally

It used to be that the Florida courts would assume that children were better off living with their mothers.

Today, however, the state law does not give preference to either parent in matters involving custody and parental rights.

When it comes to determining whether a parent should be able to raise and spend time with his or her children, the court’s primary focus is on serving the best interests of the children.

In most cases (though not always), this means establishing an arrangement where both parents spend time with their children and share parental responsibilities.

Custody Matters in Orlando, FL

At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, we represent parents in custody matters both within and outside the context of divorce. We have decades of experience helping mothers and fathers protect their rights and preserve their relationships with their children.

While we will take your case to court if necessary, we focus on using non-adversarial methods such as mediation and collaborative law in order to foster relationships that allow divorced and separated parents to continue to be respectful and work together for the benefit of their children.

Establishing a Parenting Plan

In divorces and paternity cases, Florida law requires parents to establish a “parenting plan” that provides for time-sharing and sharing of parental responsibility with regard to their children.

While the state courts favor enforcing plans that the parents agree upon voluntarily, (i) they will impose court-ordered parenting plans if necessary, and (ii) they will only enforce parenting plans that serve the best interests of the children involved.

At McMichen, Cinami & Demps, we have helped numerous parents develop enforceable parenting plans that achieve their goals while serving the best interests of their children.

Modification of Parental Rights

If you have moved or your financial circumstances have changed, you may no longer be able to adhere to your original parenting plan. To avoid a breach of your legal responsibilities, you can file a petition to modify your parenting plan with the court. In many cases, parents are able to work together and agree upon modifications as well. Our attorneys can help you pursue a modification that makes sense for your personal circumstances.

Enforcing Your Parenting Plan

If your child’s other parent is not meeting his or her responsibilities, or if he or she is infringing on your parenting time, our attorneys can help you enforce your legal rights in court. Enforcing parenting plans can often be a sensitive matter, and we are experienced in helping our clients resolve parenting plan issues while minimizing the effects on their children.

Establishing Paternity

For many fathers, establishing paternity is the first step toward gaining parental rights. While a husband is presumed to be the father of any child born into a marriage, for unmarried fathers, establishing paternity is a necessity.

Our attorneys are experienced in helping fathers obtain parental rights in Florida. Once we establish paternity, then we can help you deal with custody matters so that you can grow your relationship with your children.

Learn More about Parental Rights from the Experienced Family Lawyers at McMichen, Cinami & Demps

For more information about parenting plans and establishing parental rights in Florida, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable attorneys. We are committed to helping parents in the Orlando area to protect their rights and do what is best for their children. To speak with one of our attorneys in confidence, please call (407) 898-2161 or contact us online today.

Visit Our Divorce & Family Law Firm in Orlando, FL

McMichen, Cinami & Demps Divorce Lawyers
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 898-2161
(407) 594-5102

Our office hours are Mon-Fri 8:30 am to 5:00 pm.