Florida no longer uses the word “custody” the way many people expect. Instead, the law focuses on parental responsibility and a time-sharing schedule set out in a parenting plan — all guided by the best interests of the child.
Judges weigh many statutory factors: each parent’s ability to provide a stable routine, the child’s needs, each parent’s involvement, and more. The law is gender-neutral.
Florida favors both parents staying meaningfully involved. A parenting plan describes decision-making and the time-sharing schedule. Plans can be modified later if circumstances substantially change.
For help with your situation, see our Broward child custody and divorce pages.
No. Florida law is gender-neutral and centers on the best interests of the child, not the gender of either parent.
Yes, if there is a substantial change in circumstances affecting the child’s best interests.