Answer to petition and counterpetition to determine paternity and for related relief 2025

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The document provides instructions for completing Florida Family Law Form 12.983(c), which is used to respond to a petition regarding paternity and to file a counterpetition for related relief. It outlines the process for admitting or denying allegations, requesting parental responsibilities, timesharing, and child support. The form must be filed within 20 days of service, and includes requirements for additional documents such as financial affidavits and parenting plans. It also explains the procedures for uncontested and contested cases, as well as the importance of mediation and parenting courses.

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Click ‘Get Form’ to open it in the editor.
Begin by filling out your personal information at the top of the form, including your full legal name, address, and contact details.
In the 'Answer to Petition' section, indicate which allegations you admit or deny by referencing the specific numbered paragraphs from the petition.
Proceed to the 'Counterpetition' section. Here, specify your relationship to the minor child(ren) and provide their details such as name, place of birth, and birth date.
Complete the Parenting Plan section by selecting whether parental responsibility should be shared or awarded solely. Provide a proposed time-sharing schedule if applicable.
In the Child Support section, request support according to Florida’s guidelines and indicate any additional requests regarding medical expenses or insurance coverage.
Finally, review all entries for accuracy before signing in front of a notary public. Ensure you file the original with the court and keep a copy for your records.

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What is a counter petition for child custody?

0:54 3:03 Must include detailed information about why you are seeking the modification. And what specificMoreMust include detailed information about why you are seeking the modification. And what specific orders you are requesting standing and grounds. You must have standing to file account or petition.

What is performed after a counter petition?

Once you and your attorney have completed your response and counter-petition they must be filed at the family desk at the court clerks office. After the response and counter-petition have been filed you need to serve your spouse.

What does it mean to answer a petition?

In law, an answer refers to a defendants first formal written statement to a plaintiffs initial petition or complaint. This opening written statement will admit or deny the allegations, or demand more information about the claims of wrongdoing.

What is an answer and counter petition?

1:44 3:09 Remember filing a counter petition incurs an additional filing fee. But its often worth it toMoreRemember filing a counter petition incurs an additional filing fee. But its often worth it to ensure your rights and interests are fully protected throughout the divorce. Process.

How to petition for a paternity test?

You need a lawyer. That lawyer can file a motion with the court to compel a paternity test. When that paternity test comes back positive, they can then file motions to have you added to the birth certificate and to set up a custody arrangement and child support.

What does answer and counter petition mean?

Oftentimes a party responding to a divorce complaint with an answer will file a counterclaim as well. The counterclaim provides the responding party an opportunity to make their own allegations about the reason for the divorce and a chance to tell the court what they are asking for.

Answer to petition and counterpetition to determine paternity and for related relief 2025

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