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Pensacola Area: P. O. Box 5090, Navarre, Florida 32566 | Phone: 850-582-1656 | Panama City Area: P. O. Box 346 Panama City, Florida 32402 | Phone: 850-238-0838
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Juvenile Dependency Law protects children from abuse and neglect. It is an extremely complex and emotionally charged area of the law. In Florida, these cases are usually initiated upon a child being "sheltered" (removed from the parents' or legal guardians' custody) by the state due to the states fear that a child is being mistreated, or neglected. The state will investigate and remove the child from the home if the situation warrants doing so. The attorneys at the law offices of Rodrigues & Mayes have the understanding to help you through this trying and sometimes painful process.
The Juvenile dependency court addresses three major concerns: where will the children live, are the allegations valid, and who will have custody of the children. These decisions regarding temporary custody and visitation rights are made quickly, and early in the case. The attorneys at Rodrigues and Mayes have the ability to help you through this emotional and sometimes confusing process. Trials are heard by a judge, not a jury, and the Department, as the petitioner, must prove the allegations are true by a preponderance of evidence. If the allegations or some aspect of the allegations are found to be true the court may take jurisdiction of the child until it determines that the child is no longer in danger. The court prefers to place a child with a parent or relative as this is usually in the best interest of the child. If you are a parent who feels wrongly accused, and in fear of losing your parental rights, the attorneys at Rodrigues & Mayes can help defend your rights.
If the child is ruled by the court dependent, the parents enter into a case plan which outlines certain task the parent must successfully complete in order for the child to return to or remain in their custody. Throughout the performance of the parenting plan the court will monitor the child's and parent's progress. If the parents substantially comply with the case plan, and the child has safely remained in the custody of the parents for six consecutive months, the court may terminate supervision and terminate jurisdiction on the case. If however, the parents are unable to comply with the case plan, the court may permanently place the child under a variety of other custody situations, such as permanent guardianship or even adoption. If you are a parent attempting to comply with a plan you do not understand or if you are a grandparent who is concerned for your grandchild's well-being, we can advise you there too.
No matter what your situation, our firm is ready to help you. We have a comprehensive understanding of Florida juvenile dependency law, and know how to successfully navigate the system. We are committed to reaching the outcome that will be in the best interest of the child, and the most favorable outcome available for your parental rights. Contact one of our attorneys to schedule a free consultation.
The Juvenile dependency court addresses three major concerns: where will the children live, are the allegations valid, and who will have custody of the children. These decisions regarding temporary custody and visitation rights are made quickly, and early in the case. The attorneys at Rodrigues and Mayes have the ability to help you through this emotional and sometimes confusing process. Trials are heard by a judge, not a jury, and the Department, as the petitioner, must prove the allegations are true by a preponderance of evidence. If the allegations or some aspect of the allegations are found to be true the court may take jurisdiction of the child until it determines that the child is no longer in danger. The court prefers to place a child with a parent or relative as this is usually in the best interest of the child. If you are a parent who feels wrongly accused, and in fear of losing your parental rights, the attorneys at Rodrigues & Mayes can help defend your rights.
If the child is ruled by the court dependent, the parents enter into a case plan which outlines certain task the parent must successfully complete in order for the child to return to or remain in their custody. Throughout the performance of the parenting plan the court will monitor the child's and parent's progress. If the parents substantially comply with the case plan, and the child has safely remained in the custody of the parents for six consecutive months, the court may terminate supervision and terminate jurisdiction on the case. If however, the parents are unable to comply with the case plan, the court may permanently place the child under a variety of other custody situations, such as permanent guardianship or even adoption. If you are a parent attempting to comply with a plan you do not understand or if you are a grandparent who is concerned for your grandchild's well-being, we can advise you there too.
No matter what your situation, our firm is ready to help you. We have a comprehensive understanding of Florida juvenile dependency law, and know how to successfully navigate the system. We are committed to reaching the outcome that will be in the best interest of the child, and the most favorable outcome available for your parental rights. Contact one of our attorneys to schedule a free consultation.
