Guiding St. Petersburg Families to Clarity & Strength in Child Custody

When your family's future feels uncertain, having the right child custody attorney can provide peace of mind during challenging times. At Harris, Hunt & Derr, P.A., we help parents in St. Petersburg navigate some of life's most sensitive and complex transitions. Our team understands that every custody case brings high emotional stakes. We support you with guidance that prioritizes your child's well-being and your relationship with them.

Our attorneys bring steady, compassionate focus and a reputation for excellence, recognized by U.S. News Best Law Firms and Best Divorce Lawyers in Tampa. If you're facing questions about custody, parenting plans, or what steps to take next in St. Petersburg, you can count on us for personalized, attentive support from start to finish.

We believe every family deserves protection without unnecessary conflict. We'll show you how our approach to child custody can help you secure what matters most.

Contact our trusted child custody lawyer in St. Petersburg at (813) 223-5421 to schedule a confidential consultation.

How Our Team Supports Families Through Child Custody Challenges

Decisions about your children require careful attention and respect for what makes your family unique. Our team at Harris, Hunt & Derr, P.A. addresses every child custody case with empathy, focusing on protecting your family while guiding you forward with solutions tailored to your specific needs and values.

Our philosophy and approach mean you benefit from:

• Protection Without Destruction®: We strive to resolve disputes amicably, with a focus on reducing stress for parents and children.
• Collaborative team support: Our attorneys work together, drawing on extensive family law experience to address challenges from every angle.
• Limited caseload commitment: We are able to dedicate the time and care your case deserves by accepting a select number of clients.

Families trust us not just for our legal skills, but for our compassion, clear communication, and our focus on maintaining healthy relationships whenever possible.

Why Choose Us for Child Custody Matters in St. Petersburg?

Selecting a child custody lawyer is a significant decision that impacts your future. Our firm’s Tier 1 ranking in Family Law by U.S. News Best Law Firms, along with recognition as some of Tampa’s Best Divorce Lawyers, highlights our dedication to high standards and results.

We deliver distinct advantages for clients in St. Petersburg:

• Individualized legal strategies: Each family receives a plan tailored to their goals and needs.
• Collaborative, experienced attorneys: Multiple perspectives allow us to create well-rounded solutions.
• Personalized attention: Our limited caseload ensures responsive communication throughout your case.

With decades of experience in child custody cases in St. Petersburg, we always keep your child’s best interests and your peace of mind as our guiding priorities.

Understanding the Child Custody Process in Florida

Child custody cases in St. Petersburg are governed by Florida law, especially Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes. These laws focus on the best interests of the child and outline specific procedures that parents need to follow in Pinellas County courts, including the Sixth Judicial Circuit.

Types of Custody & Key Considerations

There are two primary types of custody in Florida:

The differences you need to know:

• Parental responsibility (legal custody): Who makes important decisions about the child’s welfare.
• Time-sharing (physical custody): How the child’s time is divided between parents.

Parents are generally required to develop a detailed parenting plan addressing these responsibilities. Factors such as the child’s school ties, family relationships, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment play a central role in case outcomes. Our team helps you prepare, file documents, negotiate arrangements, and, when necessary, appear at the Pinellas County Justice Center. We keep current with the latest changes in family law and court procedures so you always get up-to-date guidance.

What to Expect When You Work With Our Child Custody Lawyers

We want every client to feel informed and confident. When you choose our child custody lawyers, you begin with a thorough consultation. We listen to your concerns, discuss your priorities, and review your family’s circumstances.

Our Step-by-Step Support Includes:

You can expect the following at each stage:

• Initial meeting: We learn about your needs and explain how your case may proceed.
• Planning and negotiation: We work with you to develop a strategy and pursue an agreement through dialogue or mediation.
• If needed, court representation: We advocate for you in the Pinellas County Justice Center, preparing thoroughly for every stage.
• Ongoing communication: Our limited caseload means we update you promptly and answer your questions as they arise.

Throughout the process, our focus remains on making the experience as manageable as possible, reducing stress, and supporting your family’s wellbeing.

Addressing Unique Challenges in High-Conflict or Complex Custody Cases

Some families encounter extra challenges in child custody cases, including high conflict, relocation issues, parental substance abuse, or concerns about a child's safety. Our attorneys in St. Petersburg are prepared to handle these situations with skill and discretion.

How We Approach Complex Circumstances

We provide added support by:

• Applying our Protection Without Destruction® method: We work to resolve disputes and protect children from unnecessary conflict.
• Coordinating with professionals: When it helps achieve the best result, we can work with counselors, therapists, or child advocates.
• Creative problem-solving: We develop parenting plans tailored to unique needs, including relocation or major life changes.

Whether your case involves difficult negotiations or requires protective measures, our team’s local experience and advanced planning help families reach strong, sustainable solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Florida decide who gets child custody?

Florida courts typically determine child custody based on what serves the best interests of the child. Judges review factors like each parent's ability to support the child's needs, past involvement, stability of the home, the child’s connections to school and community, and any risks to well-being. Our attorneys explain which factors matter most in your situation and help you present your strengths to the court in St. Petersburg.

What if my situation is very high-conflict or my child’s safety is at risk?

Our attorneys respond to these situations with extra care and urgency. We have significant experience handling cases involving high conflict or concerns for a child's safety. Our team can help secure protective orders or involve child advocates when needed. We use strategies to minimize harm and focus on your child's best interests while guiding you through each step with clarity and support.

Will I have to go to court in St. Petersburg for my custody case?

Many child custody cases in St. Petersburg settle through negotiation or mediation before reaching trial. However, some cases do require court hearings at the Pinellas County Justice Center. Our attorneys strive to resolve disputes as amicably as possible, but we are fully prepared to represent you in court when necessary. We will set clear expectations so you always know what to anticipate.

How is your team different from other local child custody attorneys?

Our firm stands out through our Tier 1 Family Law ranking by U.S. News Best Law Firms and our recognition as some of the Best Divorce Lawyers in Tampa. Unlike many others, we handle a limited caseload for personal service. Our team relies on the Protection Without Destruction® philosophy, prioritizing low-conflict solutions, and we collaborate closely to find answers that work for your unique family in St. Petersburg.

What should I expect at my first meeting with your attorneys?

At your first meeting, our attorneys will listen to your goals and explain your options clearly. We encourage your questions and explain how Florida law may affect your situation. This appointment is private and welcoming. You will never be pressured—our role is to provide honest advice and support so you can make informed decisions.

Can you help with modifications to a custody arrangement?

Yes, our attorneys regularly assist with modifications to custody and parenting plans. If your circumstances have changed—such as a parent's relocation or a significant shift in your child's needs—we guide you through the process of requesting a change in court. We are committed to helping you find effective solutions to ongoing family challenges.

Contact Our St. Petersburg Child Custody Attorneys Today

Taking action allows you to regain clarity and peace of mind about your family's future. When you reach out to Harris, Hunt & Derr, P.A., you receive a responsive, confidential consultation with attorneys who focus on your needs and goals.

Our recognition as a Tier 1 law firm in family law, our collaborative approach, and our commitment to individual attention offer real support to clients throughout St. Petersburg. We strive to make every step understandable and focused on your child's well-being.

Contact us at (813) 223-5421 to schedule your confidential consultation with a trusted child custody attorney in St. Petersburg.