Divorce can bring about significant changes in people’s lives, especially when it comes to adjusting to a new family dynamic. In some cases, geographical distance may separate parents who share custody of their children. When faced with this situation, it becomes necessary to adapt the parenting schedule to accommodate the distance between parents.
Understanding Long-Distance Custody in Florida
Each state has its own criteria for determining long-distance custody. In Florida, parents are considered to have a long-distance custody arrangement when they reside more than 50 miles apart. This applies regardless of whether the distance is within the state or if one parent lives out-of-state.
To effectively manage long-distance child custody in Florida, parents must utilize a Long-Distance Parenting Plan.
The Importance of a Long-Distance Parenting Plan
The Long-Distance Parenting Plan is a crucial tool for parents in Florida who have a long-distance custody arrangement. If the parents are already living apart at the time of the divorce, the plan will be incorporated into the divorce agreement. However, if one parent later moves 50 miles away or more, the court must be notified, and the plan must be implemented to address the new distance between the parents.
Florida’s Long-Distance Parenting Plan is highly detailed, covering various scenarios that may arise when parents live far apart.
Decision Making
The plan grants decision-making powers to parents and offers three options:
- Shared Parental Responsibility: Parents have an equal say on matters, with both having full authority to make decisions.
- Shared Parental Responsibility with Decision Making Authority: Parents have an equal say, but when they cannot reach an agreement, one parent has the final authority to make a decision.
- Sole Parental Responsibility: Only one parent has decision-making authority on specific matters.
One of the remarkable aspects of this parenting plan is that decision-making authority can be tailored to suit each parent’s circumstances. For instance, if one parent is a doctor, they may have sole authority on non-emergency, health-related issues, while the other parent, who is a teacher, may have shared responsibility with final authority on educational matters. The plan allows for such flexibility in assigning authority. Education and health are the two standard categories covered, and the plan provides space to accommodate other issues that may require a final decision.
Extracurricular Activities
The plan addresses the responsibility for extracurricular activities, including registration and costs. It also clarifies transportation arrangements to and from events.
Scheduling and Holidays
In addition to school schedules, the plan delves into the granular details of scheduling time with the children. It offers a wide range of options, such as visitation on weekends or weekdays, allowing parents to customize the plan according to their preferences. The plan also covers holiday arrangements, providing flexibility for parents to either have the children on specific holidays every year or alternate custody. There is even an option to establish a fixed schedule that remains unaffected by holidays. Transportation arrangements and associated costs are also specified in the plan.
Communication
The plan emphasizes the importance of communication between parents and outlines the frequency and method of communication with the children, whether it be through phone calls, video chats, or other means.
Penalties
Florida takes adherence to the plan seriously and incorporates penalties for non-compliance. Failure to communicate at the scheduled time or being late for pick-ups or drop-offs can result in consequences.
Working on the Plan
Ideally, parents should collaboratively work on the plan to ensure it benefits everyone involved. By focusing on mutual understanding and compromise, parents can create a plan that serves the best interests of their children. However, if the relationship is contentious, it may be helpful to enlist the assistance of a mediator. A mediator acts as an impartial third party, facilitating communication, addressing concerns, and helping parents recognize each other’s needs. Once parents have drafted their plan, it can be submitted to the court for official approval.
It is advisable to avoid having the court create the plan on behalf of the parents, as judges make decisions based on their perception of the child’s best interests. There is a chance that one parent may be granted complete decision-making authority, while the other has no say in the matter.
If you require assistance with a Long-Distance Parenting Plan, Thumbuddy To Love is here to help. Our experts can guide you through the process, ensuring that your rights as a parent are protected.
Remember, creating a comprehensive and well-thought-out Long-Distance Parenting Plan is crucial for maintaining a healthy co-parenting relationship and providing stability for your children. Reach out to us today for the support you need.