Negative parental behaviors can have a dramatic effect on the custody of a child. It is fair to say that most parents try to do what is best for the children at all times. However, sometimes the behavior of parents is called into question so severely that they risk losing custody on a permanent or temporary basis. When allegations of neglect surface, authority figures in Florida might decide a child is better off in protective custody than with either parent.
A recent incident in South Florida highlights the consequences that can occur when parents engage in behaviors considered neglectful. According to news reports, a couple entered a bar with a 3-month-old child, but the manager of the facility told the parents that children were not allowed. At that point, the parents took the baby outside and left it unattended on the sidewalk in the hours after midnight. The report indicates that the baby’s mother went outside periodically to check on the child and would then come back inside to continue drinking.
When officials became involved, the child was removed from the care of the couple and is awaiting suitable custodial parents with the Department of Children and Families. Both of the baby’s parents face possible charges associated with child neglect. The news report indicates the two are facing criminal litigation.
Most parents would probably not choose to leave their child outside of a bar in the wee hours of the night. While this incident is extreme, it does reveal the damage that can occur from possible negligent behavior. This is especially the case during child custody battles and other aspects of getting a divorce. Consulting carefully with a family law attorney can prepare you to handle all kinds of child custody issues.
Source: NBCMiami.com, “Couple Accused of Leaving Baby on Sidewalk While They Drank in Bar,” Keith Jones, Aug. 26, 2015
