The Florida House Civil Justice Subcommittee unanimously advanced HB 385, known as the “Cassie Carli Law,” aimed at preventing tragedies like the disappearance and death of Cassie Carli by requiring designated safe exchange locations for child custody exchanges in every Florida county. Safe custody exchanges may be part of the possession arrangement or divorce decree that your Tampa, FL, custody lawyer negotiates for you. This law may be a boon in your case.
The bill, sponsored by Navarre Rep. Joel Rudman, mandates court-approved custody plans to include authorized exchange locations, prioritizing safety for parents and children, especially in high-risk situations. The proposed law specifies requirements for these exchange sites, including being well-lit, accessible, marked with purple lights or signs, and equipped with video surveillance.
Furthermore, it grants courts the authority to mandate exchanges at sheriff’s office parking lots in cases where there’s evidence of potential harm. Rudman’s bill includes provisions to simplify the process for parents at risk of violence, such as adding a checkbox on domestic violence protection forms to request exchange locations at sheriff’s offices. During the hearing, Rudman introduced an amendment to shield counties and sheriffs from legal liability during exchanges, addressing concerns raised from the previous session.
The bill received support from various stakeholders, including representatives from the Florida PTA, who emphasized its potential to prevent future tragedies and make a meaningful impact on child custody safety. Supporters highlighted the collaborative effort to refine and improve the bill over two years and compared its significance to similar legislation, such as Greyson’s Law, which addresses threats against ex-partners in child custody cases.
The bill now advances to the House Judiciary Committee for further review while a Senate companion awaits consideration. If passed, the Cassie Carli Law will take effect on July 1. It aims to enhance child custody safety across Florida, with Miami-Dade County exempted until 2025 due to the absence of an elected sheriff.
How Can A Tampa, FL, Custody Lawyer Help In Contentious Custody Disputes?
If your divorce or custody battle was contentious, you already know that the time when you exchange your child with their other parent can be a trying, even dangerous, time.
Your Tampa custody lawyer can provide the necessary legal support and guidance to help you protect your rights and ensure the best interests of your children are prioritized in the following ways:
- Personalized Legal Guidance. Your custody lawyer understands the intricacies of Florida’s family law and can provide clear, concise advice on your rights and obligations. They demystify the legal process, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for every step of the custody battle.
- Strategic Planning. Each custody case is unique, requiring a tailored approach. A custody lawyer will assess your situation, gather pertinent evidence, and develop a strategic plan to support your case. This might include preparing legal documents, organizing witness testimonies, and presenting compelling arguments in court.
- Negotiation and Mediation. Many custody disputes can be resolved outside of court through negotiation and mediation. A custody lawyer acts as a mediator, facilitating discussions between parents to reach a mutually agreeable custody arrangement. Their negotiation skills are crucial in achieving favorable outcomes while minimizing conflict and emotional strain.
Finally, if negotiations fail, your attorney represents you in court. They guide you through testimony and prepare you to present your case before a judge.
Our Tampa Child Custody Layers Are Here To Help
Do you need help setting a custody agreement or modifying an existing one, based on changes in Florida law? Contact The McKinney Law Group today. A compassionate Tampa custody lawyer can help you protect yourself and your child.