In My Florida Divorce, Why Would I Need a Social Investigation?

Written By: Lenorae C. Atter, Attorney
Wood, Atter & Wolf, P.A.

Florida family law court requires that parties divorcing with children or going through a paternity case must establish a parenting plan. The parenting plan is designed to give parents parameters in raising children in separate homes. Often, parents cannot agree on a parenting plan, when that happens, the court may require the parents to attend a Social Investigation per Florida Statute 61.20.

What is a Social Investigation? It is a mechanism used by the Court to help determine and understand what the main issues are involving the children and their needs. It helps to look at issues more closely as they relate to the parents and children in developing the right plan. When a social investigation is ordered, the investigator must provide the court with the written recommendations and study that was completed by the investigator so that the court can use the study to better understand the issues, the parties and the best interest of the children in accordance with the investigation.

If you believe that is a social investigation would be in the best interest of your children, then you will want to discuss the matter further with your divorce or paternity lawyer.