Child Custody Attorney
Our experienced team can handle your child custody needs
Attorney Christopher Doty is an experienced child custody attorney serving Ocala, Florida and the surrounding area. While it’s a fact that many marriages unfortunately end in divorce, the divorce doesn’t end the responsibilities of the parents when it comes to a child or their children. When the situation between parents have reached a point where they are irreconcilable, you will need the services of an experienced child custody attorney.
If you have children and are facing divorce, your first step should be to contact the Law Offices of Christopher A. Doty. Since 2004 Christopher Doty has been providing divorce and child custody representation in Ocala and the surrounding area. At the Law Offices of Christopher Doty, P.A. my mission statement is, “FIGHTING 4 FAMILIES,” which is exactly what I do. I am committed to fighting for you and all that you are entitled to under the law. I will handle your case with the utmost respect and integrity, while making sure that your rights are protected and exercised at the least possible cost for you and your family.
The Law Offices of Christopher Alan Doty, P.A. offers a variety of domestic and family law services in Marion County and all surrounding areas.
What are the Child Custody Rules in Florida?
Know the Basics of Florida Child Custody Law
Every state is different when it comes to child custody issues. In Florida, the state specifies that the child or children’s biological parents make all the important decisions about the following:
- Which school the child or children will attend?
- What religion the child or children will be raised under?
- All extracurricular activities of the child or children
- The doctor(s) they will see
- And most importantly, where the child or children will live
What is Shared Responsibility?
Every divorce and child custody case is different. What is consistent with Florida law is that both parents are encouraged to take an active role in the lives of their child or children following a divorce. The goal is to create the best possible environment to support the child or children both emotionally and financially. Ideally, both parents will agree to the terms of this joint responsibility. There are however, conditions that could affect joint custody and limit or deny access to one or more parents:
- Has a parent been convicted of a 3rd degree felony or greater involving domestic violence?
- Is there a history of alcohol or drug abuse?
- Is there a history of child molestation or child sexual abuse?
- What is the financial ability of either parent to care for the wellbeing of the child or children?
- Is there a history of mental illness?
Final judgement will come down to what is in the best interests of the child or children. Because this can be so subjective, every case is different. That is why you need the experience of a proven child custody attorney like Chris Doty.
Is it Possible to be Awarded Sole Custody or Responsibility?
There are circumstances where the court may grant one parent sole responsibility of a child or children. Depending on the case, this sole custody could involve visitation, or it could be denied. Courts would have to believe it’s in the best interests of the siblings to deny access to one or both parents. Depending on the age of a child it could be many years before they reach the age where they could be considered competent enough to choose which parent to live with. Because of this, child custody determinations are always subject to change. For example, the circumstances of either parent may change. The relocation of one of the parents can have a profound effect on custody.
Would moving the child away from the other parent be in the sibling’s best interests? Child custody is an emotional issue that can have far reaching consequences. Having the services of an experienced child custody attorney like Chris Doty is important to achieving the outcome you deserve.
The Law Offices of Chris Doty also provide legal services for the following:
- Divorce
- Uncontested Divorce
- Post-Divorce Issues
- Alimony
- Legal Separation
- Paternity Issues
- Visitation
- Civil/Domestic Violence Injunction
- Relative or Stepparent Adoption
- Military Divorce
Why you should place your trust with Christopher Alan Doty, a dedicated family law attorney?
Every child support case is unique in some ways. Florida law allows for you and your spouse to reach fair agreements that would meet the standards of Florida courts. While we can represent you in the traditional sense, we can also assist in a mediated settlement and can work towards this end with your spouse’s attorney. If your case is contested, I will provide you with skilled representation to protect your rights.
I take pride in looking after the needs of people in Central Florida. Hiring a professional and well-prepared family law attorney is a crucial decision on the outcome of your future and the future of your family. I have helped clients and families across Central Florida and I can proudly say that I have exceeded my client’s expectations on all levels. I offer personalized service and have made it my mission to “FIGHT 4 FAMILIES” throughout Ocala, FL and surrounding areas. As a former United States Marine, it is my honor to continue to serve and protect your rights. I look forward to meeting with you and discussing your case.
Sincerely,
Christopher Alan Doty, Esq.
See What Our Clients are Saying
Christopher Doty helped our family when we needed it most! Grateful for his hard work.
Takes care of their people! Grateful for Christopher and his team.
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The Law Offices of Christopher Alan Doty, P.A.
proudly offers services in the following areas:
The Villages
Lady Lake
Weirsdale
Top of the World
Candler Hills
Homosassa Springs
Hernando
Citrus Hills
Jacksonville