A parenting plan is a legal document that separating couples must create and submit in court. This proposed plan helps ensure a stable form of upbringing for the couple’s children, even after they have chosen to break up.
If you and your ex-spouse are going through your divorce proceedings, you may have some unfamiliarity with what a parenting plan should contain and how it gets approved. To get you started with the process, here are three commonly asked questions about Florida’s parenting plan:
What should I include in my parenting plan?
To help establish a smooth transition for your children’s new lives, your parenting plan must outline how you and your ex-spouse envision raising your children post-divorce. This will tackle your individual schedules with the children and how you plan to share your parental duties.
Your legal document must include:
- Time-sharing schedule
- Communication plans
- Transportation and exchanges
- School and extracurricular activities
- Academic breaks
- Holidays and vacations
- Birthdays and other special events
- Conflict resolution
The parenting plan can also include specific rules about social media and internet access, out-of-state or international travels, and how to manage emergencies.
How do I file my parenting plan?
Parenting plan proposals can be drafted by one parent or by both parents. Before you file your document with the clerk of circuit court, you must also add a copy of your current family law case in your packet.
A judge will review your documents to determine whether the parenting plan meets the legal criteria and serves your children’s best interests. Once the proposed plan gets approval, the judge will sign your order. However, if only one parent files the proposed plan, there will be an additional period given to the other parent to file a response.
Do I have to follow everything on the plan?
Yes, with some flexibility. Since your parenting plan is approved by the court, you and your ex-spouse must follow the schedule accordingly. However, it is also understandable that not all things can go according to plan. If the change is minor, you can discuss it with your ex-spouse and figure out a way to compromise.
It is important to note that there are acts of non-compliance that can have serious legal consequences, such as denying the other parent of their visitation rights or unlawfully withholding your children.
You will be okay
As you finalize your divorce, you and your ex will need to become active pillars for your children as they transition to their new, day-to-day routines. With a court-approved parenting plan and a collaborative attitude, you can achieve this goal.
