Not every Florida divorce is contentious with the sides disagreeing on everything from the start. For couples who can find common ground, it can make the process much easier. This is especially true if children are involved.
There is no doubt that divorce can be rough on the kids. A major issue is child custody and parenting time. For some, there is flexibility and willingness to negotiate. Still, it is important for parents to understand what it means to come to an agreement to live by the Title IV-D Standard Parenting Time Plan. Before agreeing, it is wise to have professionals look at the case.
What is the schedule for the standard parenting time plan?
The court’s primary consideration is the child’s best interests. With the Title IV-D Standard Parenting Plan or a plan the parents create on their own, it must be signed and part of the case before it can go into effect. If there is no agreement, the court will decide. Even if there is an agreed upon parenting time template, the appropriate court can be asked to modify it or enforce it.
Under the standard parenting time plan, the noncustodial parent will have the child on the second and fourth weekend of the month starting at 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday. It can also be extended with the noncustodial parent returning the child to school on Monday. Holidays can extend the time with the child.
The noncustodial parent will also have the child one evening during the week starting at 6 p.m. and ending at 8 p.m. This can be adjusted so the noncustodial parent has the child from the time they leave school.
Holidays are often a source of discord. Under the standard parenting time plan, Thanksgiving break will be split based on even and odd years. This formula is also used for winter break and spring break. In the summer when the kids are off from school, the noncustodial parent will have the child for two weeks starting at 6 p.m. on the first Sunday after school ends.
Legal assistance can help with reaching an acceptable parenting time agreement
This schedule might be appropriate for some, but not every situation is the same. Some parents want more time with the child. Others have work, school and personal obligations to prevent them from adhering to this type of schedule.
Perhaps they can create one on their own and it can work amicably. Many are bitter. Both sides want custody and have their own objectives with parenting time. Before signing a document for parenting time or any other aspect of family law, it is useful to have experienced legal guidance.