Creating A Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan When Parents Live Far Apart
Negotiating child time-sharing arrangements in Fort Lauderdale is rarely easy, but if you and your co-parent live far apart, creating a workable parenting plan can feel overwhelming. Long drives, school schedules, and missed activities can quickly become points of tension.
You may be wondering what the court expects or considers reasonable, and what happens if you and the other parent can’t agree. Make no mistake: distance does matter. The primary focus is on what is practical for the child and in their best interests. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer explains factors judges consider when distance is an issue and how to build a practical parenting plan.
What Broward County Judges Consider When Distance Is an Issue In Parenting Plans
Under the Florida Statutes, child time-sharing arrangements are generally encouraged in cases of divorced or single parents. The parties are expected to work together to create a parenting plan that details the amount of time the child spends in each parent’s home, rights to weekends and holidays, and decision-making responsibilities.
This is difficult enough when the parents both live in Broward County. It is even more challenging when one parent lives out of the area or even out of state. Protecting your child’s stability and routine is a top priority in these cases, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution.
Here’s what Broward County Family Court judges are likely to consider:
- The distance between each parent’s home and the total travel time required.
- The child’s age and their ability to handle different types of travel.
- Their school schedules and academic needs.
- Each parent’s work schedule and availability.
- Whether there is a history of cooperation between parents
In some cases, equal time-sharing is not realistic, and the schedule may shift to reflect travel demands.
Building A Practical Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan When One Parent Is Long Distance
Florida parenting plans allow for customized arrangements. When distance is involved, thoughtful planning can reduce conflict and make the arrangement more manageable. Here’s how to build a practical plan that works for everyone involved:
- Create longer, less frequent visits instead of constant exchanges.
- Build in virtual communication between visits.
- Plan around school breaks and holidays.
- Clearly outlining transportation responsibilities.
Keep in mind that if you and the other parent are unable to agree on arrangements, the judge in your case will decide for you. Rather than risking this or attempting to negotiate on your own, work with an experienced Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer, who can clearly draft terms. Well-structured plans reduce confusion and help prevent ongoing disputes.
Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Lawyer Today
Child time-sharing arrangements can still work when parents live long distances, but they do require careful planning. For help in creating a realistic schedule that protects your child and your parental rights, reach out to Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices.
Our Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer can help you negotiate a practical parenting plan, even when distance is a factor. Call or contact us online today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
flcourts.gov/Resources-Services/Office-of-Family-Courts/Family-Court-in-Florida/Family-Law-Forms/Parenting-Plan-12.995-Forms-A-C/Parenting-Plan
