Child custody battles can feel overwhelming.
If you are facing a custody case in Florida, preparation, mindset, and strategy are everything.
Winning your child custody case isn’t just about proving you’re the better parent — it’s about demonstrating you are focused on your child’s best interests.
Cusody Battles at Florida Mediation Services, led by the highly respected mediator Susan Saunders, we help parents approach custody cases with confidence, clarity, and compassion.
Custody Battle: Here’s how you can position yourself for success:
Custody Battle Step 1. Understand Florida’s “Best Interests of the Child” Standard
Florida law prioritizes the child’s well-being above all else.
Judges evaluate factors like:
- Emotional bonds with each parent
- Home stability
- Moral character
- Parental willingness to foster relationships with the other parent
Learn the legal criteria at Florida Bar Family Law Guide.
✅ At Florida Mediation Services, we educate clients on exactly what judges expect to see.
Custody Battle Step 2. Hire a Skilled Divorce Mediator Early
A seasoned mediator like Susan Saunders can make all the difference..
Discover why mediation matters for custody (American Bar Association).
✅ Learn more about Susan Saunders’ mediation services here.
Custody Battle Step 3. Stay Child-Centered at All Times
Winning custody means proving you prioritize your child’s emotional needs — not your grievances against the other parent.
At Florida Mediation Services, we help parents build child-focused Parenting Plans that courts respect.
Custody Battle Step4. Document Everything Carefully
Keep detailed records of:
- Visitation exchanges
- Communications with the other parent
- Your child’s school, health, and extracurricular activities
Good documentation can strengthen your credibility.
Check out tips at FindLaw’s Custody Resources.
Custody Battle Step 5. Be Willing to Mediate
Mediation isn’t just a checkbox — it’s often a game-changer.
Florida courts prefer parents who make honest efforts to resolve custody and parenting plan disagreements outside of litigation.
✅ Susan Saunders at Florida Mediation Services is known for helping families achieve fair, lasting agreements.
Custody Battle Step 6. Practice Excellent Communication Skills
Courts will notice if you are combative, uncooperative, or emotionally reactive.
Always:
- Speak respectfully
- Respond calmly
- Focus discussions on the child’s needs
Great communication improves both mediation outcomes and court appearances.
Explore communication strategies at OurFamilyWizard Communication Tips.
Custody Battle Step 7. Keep a Clean Record
Avoid:
- Arrests
- Substance abuse issues
- Negative social media posts
Anything damaging your parental fitness will weaken your custody case.
Maintaining a clean, responsible profile can have a powerful impact.
Custody Battle Step 8. Prepare a Strong Parenting Plan
Florida requires detailed Parenting Plans.
A well-crafted plan shows the court you are prepared and focused on your child’s needs.
✅ Let Florida Mediation Services assist you in developing a parenting strategy that works.
Custody Battle Step 9. Understand Shared Custody Expectations
Florida increasingly promotes shared parental responsibility.
Even if you seek majority timesharing, showing flexibility and willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent is key.
Learn more about Florida’s co-parenting focus from Nolo’s Florida Custody Overview.
Custody Battle Step 10. Stay Calm, Positive, and Focused
Finally — your mindset matters.
Judges want to see parents who stay calm under pressure, promote stability, and prioritize long-term emotional security for the child.
Why Families Trust Susan Saunders and Florida Mediation Services
With decades of experience, Susan Saunders has earned a reputation for excellence in family mediation across Florida.
Clients appreciate her:
- Deep knowledge of child custody law,
- Compassionate yet strategic approach,
- Ability to find creative, workable solutions even in difficult custody cases.
✅ Whether you’re building a Parenting Plan, preparing for court, or modifying an existing order, Florida Mediation Services is here to help.
📚 External Authority Links (4):
- 🔗 Florida Bar Family Law Guide
- 🔗 American Bar Association: Mediation and Custody
- 🔗 FindLaw: Custody Resources
- 🔗 OurFamilyWizard: Co-Parenting Communication Tips
