Quote Quoting Dogmatique
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Florida has a shifting burden of proof; if the relocating parent can prove their case, the burden shifts to the non-relocating parent to prove that the move is NOT in the best interests of the child.

statute here
Thank you for the statute link.

Essentially, a certified letter, as detailed in statute linked above, leaves Dad with 20 days to come up with cash to file for a custody hearing? I believe it's 400 to file yourself in FL. I've heard the parent that files first often has the upper hand but, that most judges are still sexist and favor mom.

I think it would reflect poorly on me (mom) to do this sort of smash and grab maneuver in court. However, I may be applying emotions where I shouldn't.

Dad would lose some time, yes. However, I am very willing to give him all school, holiday and summer breaks. I am also more than willing to revisit this when our child is 12. As of now, the no-bedtime, constant video game exposure etc does not gel with my values. I don't even have a tv. He goes to bed at 7 at home. We don't watch violent programs here.

I am more than aware the above criticisms of his father don't mean a whit in the court's eyes.

What would be my (mom) best course of action? I do not want to traumatize anyone but Dad refuses to discuss this. We speak about everything else and are actually very close.

Should I file or do I have technical legal custody already?