At Sidweber & Weintraub, P.A., we understand that matters of parental responsibility are deeply personal and can feel overwhelming. As a parent, your top priority is your child’s well-being—and it’s ours too. With over 50 years of combined experience, we’re here to guide you through this challenging time with compassion, support, and expert legal counsel.

In Florida, parental responsibility refers to the rights and duties parents have in making major decisions for their children, such as education, healthcare, and religion. Florida law generally favors shared responsibility, meaning both parents should have an active role in decision-making. However, the arrangement may differ based on what’s best for your family.

There are three main types of parental responsibility:

• Shared Parental Responsibility: Both parents make decisions together, promoting co-parenting and collaboration.

• Sole Parental Responsibility: One parent has the authority to make decisions, typically in cases where shared responsibility isn’t in the child’s best interest.

• Divided Parental Responsibility: Parents may be given specific decision-making authority in areas where they are most involved, like education or healthcare.

Florida courts make decisions based on what’s in the child’s best interest, considering factors like age, health, the relationship with each parent, and any history of abuse or neglect. We take the time to understand your family’s unique situation and build a strategy that highlights your strengths as a parent.

At Sidweber & Weintraub, P.A., we prioritize working together through mediation or negotiation whenever possible. But, if needed, we’ll fight for your child’s future in court. Your child’s well-being is our top priority. Contact us today to take the first step toward a positive future for your family.