Q: In Florida, how likely would it be that an absent father would get custody and / or visitation? I need some legal advice
Sons dad resides in NY. My son & I reside in FL (son was born here) Sons dad has accused me of parental alienation since the birth of our child. He has always had a phone # to contact me & address. Ex has seen our 8 y/o son twice since he was born in 2015. I brought our son to NY in 2019 & 2020 to meet his dad & spend time. Ex has never been to FL to visit our son but has been here that I can prove, twice on vacation and not 1 time did he reach out to me in regards to seeing our son. After I brought our son to NY to meet his dad he stayed in touch for 6 months. Slowly but surely he stopped calling and we didn't hear from him for 3 1/2 years. Recently his child support went up (NY order) and hes all of a sudden calling saying he wants me to have our son call him. I've never been against him being in our sons life but I dont want him to emotionally and mentally damage our child. Last time ex spoke to our son he was 5 & would promise him he would come see him but never did. Need advice
A: The legal standard in Florida is what is in the best interest of the child. If a parent has been absent for an extended period the court is not going to thrust them together. Reunification is possible but can be a lengthy process. Speak with a local family lawyer for more specific advice.
Michael Ferrin agrees with this answer
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