How New 2018 Laws Could Impact Child Time-Sharing Plans

The new year has brought a new round of laws in Florida that are effective as of January 1, 2018.   While most deal with issues relating to property, taxes, and pension plans which could potentially impact those going through a divorce, there is a new law that could be a concern for parents receiving court ordered child support through the state. It has to do with child time sharing plans, and it could end up having a significant impact if you are seeking support or if you have an arrangement with the other parent currently in place.

2018 Changes in Florida Child Time Sharing Policies  

Senate Bill 590, which impacts parents who receive child support payments through the state, was passed in June of 2017 and went into effect on the first day of 2018.

The new standard parenting plan expands the authority of the Florida Department of Revenue in child support cases, and is meant to help alleviate the time and expense involved in additional court proceedings. It is open to modifications and would not cancel out any previous orders or time sharing plans made through the courts and it is not applicable in cases where child abuse or domestic violence has been alleged.

Who Is Impacted By These Changes

The new law and the standard parenting plan schedules primarily impact parents involved in the Title IV-D program administered through the DOR. As part of the Social Security Act, Title IV-D is a federal/state partnership which works to enforce child support obligations, using grants to supplement any funds that are unpaid. In Florida, this program is often used by single parents and offers additional services, such as proof of paternity and establishing child support orders.

With divorcing couples who have children, time sharing issues are usually dealt with as part of their divorce proceedings. This was previously not the case for single parents seeking services through the DOR. While supporters of the standard parenting plan claim that it will save time, money, and help single parents who cannot agree on parenting arrangements from having to go to court, opponents are concerned that standardized plans could become a common practice in all cases, and do not put the child’s best interests first.

Let Us Help You Today

At the offices of attorney Vanessa L. Prieto, the health and wellbeing of you and your children is our top priority. Call or contact our Fort Lauderdale child time sharing attorney today to request a consultation regarding your case and how these new laws could impact you.

Resource:

flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2017/590