In the state of Florida, responsibility cases such as those related to joint physical custody of a child require the preparation of a parenting plan.
The court expects the divorcing parents to create a parenting plan with specific details based on the best interests of the child.
About the parenting plan
A parenting plan serves as a roadmap for you and the other parent to show how you will care for and continue to raise your child following your divorce. In writing the plan, you must include all the information the court requires. You must also use precise language that leaves no room for misinterpretation.
Points to include
There are basic points that your parenting plan should include:
- How you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse will manage parental rights and responsibilities
- How you will share responsibility for making major decisions on behalf of your child
- How you will divide time-sharing along with specific schedules
- How you and the other parent will communicate about the child
- How you will handle changes to the plan and time-sharing schedules
- How you plan to resolve conflicts regarding your parenting plan
Future needs
As you write your parenting plan, give consideration to the future needs of your child. For example, how will the parenting time change when your toddler is ready to enter kindergarten? As your child grows, you and the other parent may disagree on the handling of certain changes. The parenting plan should indicate how you are going to resolve issues. Explain if or when you might need help from a professional such as a parenting coordinator or an attorney.