Parenting Plan
A parenting plan is a legal document required in all Florida family law cases involving minor children, such as divorce or paternity cases. It outlines how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation. Florida emphasizes co-parenting and prioritizing the child’s best interests, making the parenting plan essential to fostering stability and minimizing conflict.
Florida law requires parenting plans to include the following:
1. Parental Responsibility:
• Florida uses “parental responsibility” instead of “custody” to describe decision-making authority for a child’s upbringing.
• Parents may share joint parental responsibility, requiring collaboration on decisions regarding education, healthcare, and religion.
• The court may award sole parental responsibility if joint decision-making is not in the child’s best interests (e.g., in cases of abuse).
2. Time-Sharing Schedule:
• The plan must include a detailed schedule for when the child will spend time with each parent, covering daily routines, holidays, and vacations.
3. Communication Methods:
• It must outline how parents will communicate with each other and the child, such as phone calls, emails, or parenting apps.
4. Transportation and Exchange:
• The plan specifies how the child will be transported between parents, including pick-up and drop-off arrangements.
Creating and Modifying a Parenting Plan
Creating a Plan:
• Parents can agree on a parenting plan and submit it for court approval to ensure it aligns with the child’s best interests.
• If parents cannot agree, a neutral mediator may help resolve disputes.
• When no agreement is reached, the court will establish a plan based on the child’s best interests.
Modifying a Plan:
• A parenting plan can be modified if there is a substantial, material, and unforeseen change in circumstances, such as relocation or changes in the child’s needs.
Why Parenting Plans Matter
Parenting plans provide clarity and structure, ensuring both parents know their responsibilities and the child’s needs are prioritized. At Miller Legacy Law, we work with clients to create customized plans that promote stability and foster positive relationships.
Contact us to learn more about how we can help with your parenting plan.
