Child custody disputes are typically thought of as disputes between a mother and a father. However, in some situations, grandparents find themselves fighting for custody of their grandchildren. Florida law does recognize the best interests of the child in child custody disputes, but it is still important to understand all legal options.
One grandmother in Orange County, Florida, finds herself in the middle of a custody battle for her 2-year-old grandson. The woman is the boy’s paternal grandmother, and the father in the situation stands accused of killing the toddler’s mother.
The man’s mother is seeking to have his parental rights terminated so she may adopt the child. Currently, the toddler is living with his maternal aunt. According to the slain woman’s family, she wanted her son to live with the aunt and had indicated that she believed she might not live to raise the child herself.
According to a statement made by the slain woman’s attorney, the child’s father was not interested in visiting with the child. It was also said that the man killed the woman in front of the child. The case has yet to be resolved, and there will be more court hearings in January.
Florida’s child custody laws put emphasis on doing what is in the best interests of a child, but there are specific criteria that must be met in any case. Child custody cases are often complicated, and that is why it is important for those involved to learn all they can about their rights.
Source: WESH Orlando, “Accused killer’s mother fights for custody of grandson,” Nov. 30, 2012
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