Florida parents may understand the heartache that can come when parents who do not share a household argue over custody. Sometimes, it can be difficult for a parent to obey a child custody order that limits or prohibits the individual from spending time with his or her children. Parents should be aware, however, that when it comes to matters of child custody, it is against the law to take matters into one’s own hands, and if such an order is found to have been violated, a parent can face serious criminal charges.
Last spring, a Florida boy was reported missing. His disappearance was reported to authorities. The child’s biological father lived in another state, but authorities had trouble locating the man to question him about the possible whereabouts of his son.
A break in the case came when a police officer encountered the man as he was patrolling. Upon further investigation, using anonymous tips, it was discovered that the man had used a false name when he took up residence in a nearby RV park. Local officers tracked the man to his home, where they discovered the missing child. The child was returned to Florida and the father was arrested.
If a parent wishes to modify a custody arrangement, steps must be taken in accordance with the law. One way to begin is to contact an experienced attorney. An attorney may be able to help a parent take action without running afoul of the law. A parent that violates a child custody order may face even more separation from his or her child, particularly if criminal penalties are imposed.