Orlando Child Custody Attorney
Fighting for Your Rights as a Parent
Nothing is more important than your relationship with your children. Florida uses the term 'time-sharing' rather than custody, and courts determine parenting plans based on the best interests of the child. Attorney Joseph Knape is a tenacious advocate for parents throughout Central Florida — whether you are seeking primary time-sharing, fighting to protect your existing parental rights, or navigating a modification of an existing order.
Florida's Best Interests Standard
Florida courts evaluate more than 20 statutory factors when determining time-sharing arrangements, including each parent's ability to facilitate a close relationship with the other parent, the child's adjustment to home and school, the mental and physical health of each parent, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse. Attorney Knape knows how to present your case in the most compelling light and how to challenge the other side's narrative effectively.
Parenting Plans
Every Florida custody case requires a detailed parenting plan that addresses daily time-sharing schedules, holiday and vacation schedules, decision-making authority for education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities, and communication protocols between parents. A well-drafted parenting plan protects your rights and reduces future conflict. A poorly drafted one creates years of litigation. Attorney Knape drafts parenting plans that are comprehensive, enforceable, and designed to protect your relationship with your children.
Custody Modifications
Life changes — and parenting plans sometimes need to change with it. Florida allows modification of time-sharing when there has been a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances. Whether you need to modify an existing order due to relocation, a change in the child's needs, or the other parent's conduct, Attorney Knape can guide you through the modification process.
"Florida courts evaluate 20+ factors in every custody determination — preparation and presentation matter."
"A well-drafted parenting plan protects your rights for years. A poorly drafted one creates years of litigation."
Related Practice Areas
Ready to Protect Your Rights?
Schedule a paid 30-minute consultation with Attorney Knape. Your payment is credited toward your retainer — and you'll speak directly with the attorney who will handle your case.