Letter to the Editor

Rebecca L Palmer

As a Family Law attorney with over 25 years of experience, I work with families during the most difficult time of their lives. During a divorce proceeding, the custody of minor children is a challenging and emotional process that takes a toll on everyone involved. The introduction of the Florida House Bill 1559 and Senate Bill 1922, providing a presumption 50-50 timesharing provision, proposes a far too basic formula for this complex issue. 

Creating or modifying a parental plan as part of the divorce should always center around what is in the child’s best interest. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, nor would I apply such an uncaring and unprofessional strategy in support of my client. The parties involved are not case numbers but human beings with feelings, worries, and obligations that require customized solutions that will be mutually agreeable to both parties resulting in a long-term positive outcome. 

House Bill 1559 and Senate Bill 1992 will not solve any of the complex problems that arise in custody proceedings and should not be seen as a viable solution by lawmakers. 

While the 50-50 custody agreement may work in some cases, we should continue the conversation about how we can make the custody process less taxing and emotionally draining for all parties involved. We must preserve the well-being of all children, and a one-size-fits-all approach to custody is not the answer. 

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A special thank you to the Orlando Sentinel 

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