When parents separate or divorce, one of the most difficult issues to resolve is child custody. In Florida, courts are guided by one central principle: the best interests of the child. When allegations or evidence of domestic violence are involved, the stakes are even higher.
At Cerino Law, we’ve seen firsthand how domestic violence impacts child custody cases in Florida. Family courts take any history of abuse seriously, and it can be a decisive factor in determining parenting plans and supervised visitation schedules.
Domestic Violence and the “Best Interests” Standard
Judges in Florida evaluate a variety of factors when deciding custody, but safety is always a top priority. If a parent has a documented history of abuse, the court may:
- Limit or restrict their timesharing.
- Require supervised visitation.
- Order completion of intervention or counseling programs.
- In severe cases, deny custody altogether.
This isn’t intended to punish the parent, but to protect the child from physical and emotional harm. Even if the abuse wasn’t directed at the child, exposure to violence can have lasting effects.
“Domestic violence changes the entire framework of a custody case,” explains attorney Joe Cerino of Cerino Law. “The court’s priority is to ensure the child is raised in a safe, stable environment. Exposure to violence can cause long-term harm, even if it wasn’t directly toward the child.”
A Case Example
One of Cerino Law’s clients, a mother of two young children, came to us after years of emotional and physical abuse from her spouse. When she filed for divorce, she feared that her children would be forced into unsupervised visits with their father.
Our team gathered evidence of the abuse, including police reports, witness testimony, and medical records. In court, we demonstrated how the pattern of violence posed a direct threat to the children’s safety and well-being. As a result, the judge awarded our client primary custody, with the father’s visits limited to supervised visitation in Florida until he completed a certified intervention program.
This outcome ensured the children’s safety while still allowing their father a path to rebuild a relationship under strict conditions.
Protecting Families, Protecting Children
If you or someone you know is navigating child custody and abuse cases in Florida, it’s critical to have skilled legal representation. An experienced Florida family law attorney who understands domestic violence cases can make a significant difference in the outcome.
At Cerino Law, we are committed to protecting children and supporting parents who are safeguarding their families.
Contact Cerino Law today to discuss your situation and learn how we can guide you through the custody process with care.
