When Teens Refuse To Cooperate With Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plans

When parents file for a divorce in Fort Lauderdale, it can be particularly hard for teens. They often have strong feelings about where they want to live and how much time they want to spend with each party. What happens when these feelings turn into an outright refusal to cooperate?

Our experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer helps frustrated families in this situation and explains how striking a balance between legal obligations and emotional realities requires patience and a strong legal strategy.

Common Reasons Teens Resist Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plans

Florida parenting plans detail child time-sharing in the event of divorce or separation. Parents negotiate these arrangements, which form the basis for a final court order. Failing to follow it can result in potentially severe penalties.

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for problems to arise, particularly in families with teens. They may resist cooperating with the plan or even refuse outright. Understanding why can help you respond appropriately:

• Conflicts between parents: Ongoing tension between parents can make visits uncomfortable for teens.
• New relationships: If one of the parents has a new partner, it can cause friction or jealousy.
• Rules and routines: Different expectations in each household can lead to rebellion.
• School and social life: Teens often want to stay close to friends or extracurricular activities.
• Emotional strain: Divorce can make children feel torn or responsible for one parent’s feelings.

Requesting modifications to the parenting plan may be an option. Under Section 61.13 of the Florida Statutes, judges consider a child’s preferences as they mature. However, parents must still comply with the existing time-sharing order until any changes are approved by the court.

How to Resolve Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan Issues Involving Teens

Dealing with a divorce in Fort Lauderdale is difficult enough. It can be particularly devastating when it negatively impacts your teen. If they are rebelling against parenting plans or refusing to cooperate, you need a strong strategy:

• Communicate with the other parent to show the court you’re cooperating in good faith.
• Document everything, including notes about missed visits and your efforts to encourage compliance.
• Consider counseling, as a neutral therapist can help teens safely express their concerns.
• Request mediation or modifications if your teen continues to rebel against the parenting plan.

Our experienced Fort Lauderdale parenting plan lawyer can assess the situation and determine whether a formal modification is warranted or if better communication strategies might resolve the issue without litigation.

Consult Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan Lawyer Today

Raising teenagers in the aftermath of a divorce in Fort Lauderdale can be challenging, and potentially serious problems can arise over their refusal to cooperate with court-ordered parenting plans. To protect your teen’s emotional health and reduce the stress surrounding the situation, reach out to Vanessa L. Prieto Law Offices.

We help Broward County parents handle time-sharing conflicts and can explain your options for requesting modifications. To find the best solution for your family, contact us today and request a consultation with our experienced Fort Lauderdale parenting plan lawyer.

Sources:

flcourts.gov/Services/Family-Courts/domestic-relations-court-resources/family-law-forms/Parenting-Plan-12.995-Forms-A-C

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html