Child Custody & Parenting Plan Attorney in Bradenton Serving Sarasota
Protecting your relationship with your child while creating stable, workable parenting plans.
Child custody matters are often the most important—and most emotional—part of any family law case.
Faith Z. Brown (formerly Faith Lodder) helps parents in Bradenton, Sarasota, and Manatee County navigate custody decisions with clarity, care, and strong legal guidance. Her focus is on protecting your parental rights while supporting outcomes that serve the best interests of your child.
Call 941-953-2825
Understanding Child Custody in Florida
In Florida, the legal term for custody is parental responsibility and time-sharing.
Rather than awarding custody to one parent, courts focus on:
- Shared parental responsibility whenever possible
- Creating a structured parenting plan
- Ensuring the child’s best interests are met
Every family is different, and parenting plans must reflect the realities of your child’s needs and your family dynamic.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is a detailed agreement or court order that outlines how parents will share responsibilities and time with their child.
A parenting plan typically includes:
- Weekly and holiday time-sharing schedules
- Decision-making responsibilities
- Communication between parents
- Transportation and exchange details
- School and healthcare considerations
Faith Z. Brown works with clients to create parenting plans that are:
✔ Clear and enforceable
✔ Practical for real life
✔ Focused on long-term stability
How Courts Determine Custody
Florida courts make decisions based on the best interests of the child.
Factors may include:
- Each parent’s involvement in the child’s life
- Ability to provide a stable environment
- Communication and cooperation between parents
- The child’s needs and routine
- Moral fitness and overall well-being
Faith helps clients present their case clearly and effectively, ensuring that their role as a parent is fully understood.
Types of Custody & Time-Sharing Arrangements
Shared Parental Responsibility
Both parents share decision-making responsibilities for the child.
Majority Time-Sharing
The child spends more time with one parent, while maintaining a relationship with the other.
Equal Time-Sharing
Both parents share time more evenly, depending on schedules and logistics.
Sole Parental Responsibility (Less Common)
In certain situations, one parent may be granted primary decision-making authority.
Modifying a Custody or Parenting Plan
Life changes. Parenting plans may need to be updated when:
- A parent relocates
- Work schedules change
- The child’s needs evolve
- Circumstances significantly change
Faith Z. Brown helps clients pursue or defend modifications when appropriate.
Why Clients Choose Faith Z. Brown
More Than 20 Years of Legal Experience
Faith has extensive experience helping clients through divorce and family law matters in Florida.
Strategic and Practical Guidance
Clients need more than legal information. They need a clear path forward. Faith helps clients understand their options, anticipate challenges, and make informed decisions.
Steady Advocacy During Stressful Times
Family law issues often bring uncertainty and emotional strain. Faith is known for providing steady, grounded guidance while protecting her clients’ interests.
Deep Familiarity with Local Courts
Based in Bradenton, Faith regularly serves clients throughout Manatee County and Sarasota County and understands the procedures and expectations that shape local family law cases.
What to Expect in a Child Custody Case
Initial Consultation
Discuss your goals, concerns, and current situation.
Parenting Plan Development
Create a plan tailored to your family
Negotiation or Mediation
Whether through negotiation, mediation, or court—focused on the best possible outcome.
Court Representation (if needed)
Advocacy focused on protecting your parental rights.
Protect Your Relationship With Your Child
If you are facing a custody dispute or need to establish a parenting plan, get experienced guidance from an attorney who understands both the legal process and what matters most to families.
Call 941-953-2825
Child Custody FAQs
What is the difference between custody and time-sharing?
Florida uses the term time-sharing to describe how parents divide time with their child.
Can custody be changed after divorce?
Yes, custody arrangements can be modified if there is a substantial change in circumstances.
Do courts favor one parent over the other?
Courts focus on the best interests of the child and do not automatically favor one parent.
What if the other parent is not cooperating?
Legal options are available to enforce parenting plans or address non-compliance.
EXPANDED FAQ add to schema
What income is considered for child support?
Income may include wages, bonuses, commissions, and certain benefits.
Do both parents pay child support?
Both parents contribute financially, but one may make payments to the other.
How often can child support be modified?
Modifications are allowed when there is a substantial change in circumstances.
Can child support include medical expenses?
Yes, health insurance and medical costs are typically factored in.
What happens if a parent is self-employed?
Income may be evaluated based on earnings, expenses, and financial records.
