Visitation Rights Attorney Tampa, FL 
When Are Stepparents Granted Visitation Rights?
When American family law judges are tasked with settling child custody and visitation matters, they are generally bound by a single common standard. Although state laws related to child welfare may vary, all judges must consider the “best interests of the child” standard when determining who may have custody and/or visitation rights related to any individual child. This standard applies to biological parents, adoptive parents, and any other adult relative who is significantly invested in a child’s life and is interested in custody and/or visitation rights.
As a visitation rights attorney in Tampa, FL, we believe It is important for parents of a child to understand that while the goals of the “best interests of the child” standard are noble, application of this standard is subjective. Each family law judge applies the standard in accordance with his or her own perceptions, priorities, values, and subconscious biases. As a result, one cannot ever say with certainty how a judge will apply this standard in a dispute. It is partially for this reason that anyone involved in a child custody or visitation dispute may significantly benefit from speaking with an experienced child custody attorney Tampa, FL parents trust. Lawyers who handle family legal matters on a regular basis are generally best placed to advise individuals of their rights, their options, and how such standards may be applied to their unique circumstances.
If you are involved in a child custody or visitation matter and could benefit from guidance, please consider connecting with a visitation rights attorney in Tampa, FL from The McKinney Law Group at your earliest convenience. Asking questions early in the process can help you to clarify your legal needs, goals and approaches. Once you know how you would like to proceed, we will be able to provide you with support and/or direct you to the resources that are most relevant in your situation.
If your situation involves a stepparent visitation request, know that this matter will ultimately be determined according to the best interests of the child standard. If the stepparent in question is a fit parent, has spent considerable time bonding with and parenting the affected child, and it is in that child’s best interest that visitation be granted, there is a good chance that the request will succeed. If these criteria are not met, there is a good chance that the request will not succeed. Of course, there are exceptions to every general rule, which is why more specific feedback will almost certainly prove helpful to you.
Child Custody and Visitation Guidance Is Available
If you have questions about child custody or visitation matters, please consider scheduling a consultation with a Tampa, Florida visitation rights attorney from The McKinney Law Group. We have extensive experience assisting families as they attempt to ensure that child custody and visitation orders reflect the best interests of the children affected by them. Speaking with us will not obligate you to take any legal action whatsoever. Consultations are designed to assist individuals in making sound, informed decisions as they learn about their legal options. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about your situation, the law and/or our approach to representation. We look forward to speaking with you. Call The McKinney Law Group now to speak with a knowledgeable visitation rights attorney in Tampa, FL.