When parents go through a high-asset divorce in Florida, one of the significant decisions they must face is determining where their child will attend school. Custody arrangements often focus on time-sharing and living arrangements, but school choice can also play a pivotal role. Parents should be aware that the decision on schooling can hinge on their custody agreement and Florida law.
Custody arrangements and school choice
In Florida, child custody divides into two main types: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody grants a parent the right to make important decisions for the child, including educational choices. In cases of joint legal custody, both parents must agree on where the child will attend school. However, in high-asset divorces, where both parents often have more resources, disagreements can arise over which school provides the best environment for the child.
Florida law and school choice in custody agreements
Florida law allows parents to address school choice within their custody arrangements. Often, the parenting plan specifies how major decisions about education will get handled. If the parents can’t agree on the school, the court can intervene and make the final decision. The court’s choice will reflect the child’s best interests, proximity to the parents’ homes, and the quality of available schools.
In high-asset divorces, where parents can afford private schooling or special needs programs, this decision can become a point of contention. The court still prioritizes the child’s best interests when considering these options, factoring in the parents’ financial ability to provide the best educational experience.
School choice and the child’s best interests
Florida courts prioritize the child’s emotional, psychological, and educational development when making decisions about school choice. The court will focus on the child’s long-term happiness and academic success. If one parent can provide a stable schooling environment, such as remaining in the same district, that option may take precedence.
Ultimately, the child’s best interests will guide custody decisions about school, with both parents considering what will benefit the child most in the long run. In high-asset divorces, the financial resources of both parents can shape this choice, but the focus remains on ensuring the child’s success.