Are Florida divorces public record?

Are Divorce Records Public? In the state of Florida, divorce is considered a family court matter, which in and of itself is a civil court matter. Family court records are available to the public unless they have been expunged or sealed by order of the court.

At what age can a child make custody decision in Florida?

A child cannot choose which parent they want to live until they are 18-years-old. As they get older, however, their opinion can have a greater weight with the court.

Can you seal divorce records in Florida?

The Process of Sealing Florida Divorce Records To begin the process of requesting that your records be sealed, your attorney will need to file a motion and affidavit with the court. If any harm may occur to the divorcing couple upon disclosure. If any other methods exist for protecting the spouses.

How do I obtain a copy of my divorce decree in Florida?

Divorce records are available for events that occurred within the State of Florida from June 1, 1927 to present. For prior events or to obtain a copy of the final decree, you will need to contact the Circuit Court Clerk in the county where the event occurred. A certified copy of the Certificate of Divorce.

What happens to child custody after a divorce?

Generally in most states, both parents continue to have joint legal custody after divorce, meaning both parents have equal rights to make child-rearing decisions. However, courts may award sole legal custody to one parent under some rare circumstances. A parent with sole legal custody has the unilateral legal right to make child-rearing decisions.

What happens if one parent is awarded sole custody?

Abuse or Neglect: Courts will limit a parent’s contact with the children if there is evidence of abuse or neglect. If one parent is awarded sole physical or legal custody, the noncustodial parent is usually required to make child support payments to the custodial parent.

Can a child live with both parents after a divorce?

Physical custody is the right to have your children live with you after a divorce. The right may be shared by both parents in a joint physical custody arrangement or granted to only one parent in a sole physical custody arrangement.

When does a non-custodial parent take custody of a child?

These circumstances usually arise if the custodial parent fears imminent harm to the child (such as abuse or neglect); or if the children themselves do not want to visit the non-custodial parent. Violation of visitation rights can have serious consequences.