Jurisdictional Custody Attorneys in Sarasota

Protecting Children’s Best Interests in Jurisdictional Cases in Florida

Many Florida co-parents live in different towns, states, or even countries. These circumstances can complicate the issue of child custody when it comes to determining jurisdiction, or the authority of a court to rule on a particular legal issue. It takes a skilled attorney to help parents and the court determine and enforce the appropriate jurisdiction.

Schipani, Norman & McLain, P.A., can assist parents in the Sarasota area with jurisdictional issues regarding out-of-state or international relocation and child abduction. We work to ensure that parents and the court protect the best interests of the child, no matter where jurisdiction takes place.

What Is The UCCJEA?

The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, or UCCJEA, is a law that provides a standard across the country for jurisdiction in child custody cases. According to this law, only one court may have jurisdiction in the child’s home state. Any other court, whether in Florida or in another state, must defer to the jurisdictional court’s orders.

What If My Child Is Taken Out of State?

Under the UCCJEA, parents cannot simply move a child to a different court jurisdiction just because they did not like one court’s ruling. For example, if a noncustodial parent relocates the child to Alabama, the original Florida court will retain power over the case. This is also true for international relocation.

Contact Our Jurisdictional Custody Lawyer Today

This issue is incredibly complex, and you probably have many questions about how the law will affect your kids. Contact Schipani, Norman & McLain, P.A., and we can discuss your case.

Call (941) 499-8154 or send the firm an email to schedule an initial consultation.