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Content Overview

The Parenting Plan Examples Florida form is a crucial document designed to outline the responsibilities and time-sharing arrangements between parents regarding their minor children. This form is applicable in all cases involving time-sharing, ensuring that both parents have a clear understanding of their roles and obligations. It is important to note that even if parents agree on the terms, the form must be signed and notarized to be valid. The Parenting Plan must detail how daily tasks related to the children's upbringing will be shared, including the time-sharing schedule that specifies when children will be with each parent. Additionally, it addresses healthcare decisions, educational matters, and communication methods between parents and their children. The primary focus of the Parenting Plan is the best interests of the children involved, taking into account various factors such as the parents' relationship history and any instances of domestic violence. While the form provides a structured template, it is recommended that parents customize it to reflect their unique circumstances and the needs of their children. This comprehensive approach not only fosters cooperation but also aims to create a stable and nurturing environment for the children. As a vital legal document, it is essential to follow the proper filing procedures and keep a copy for personal records, ensuring that all parties are informed and engaged in the process.

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA SUPREME COURT APPROVED FAMILY LAW FORM 12.9--

PARENTING PLAN

When should this form be used?

This form should be used in all cases involving time-sharing with any minor child(ren), even when time- sharing is not in dispute. If the case involves supervised time-sharing, the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan, O“ Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.9– should be used.

This form should be typed or printed in black ink. If an Agreement has been reached, both parties must sign the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk. After completing this form, you should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records. You should then refer to the instructions for your petition, answer, or answer and counterpetition concerning the procedures for setting a hearing or trial (final hearing). If an agreed Parenting Plan is not filed by the parties, the Court shall establish a Plan.

Where can I look for more information?

Before proceeding, you should read “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms. The words that are in bold underlinein these instructions are defined there. For further information, see chapter 61, Florida Statutes, and the instructions for the petition and/or answer that were filed in this case.

Special notes...

At a minimum, the Parenting Plan must describe in adequate detail:

$How the parties will share and be responsible for the daily tasks associated with the upbringing of the child(ren),

$The time-sharing schedule arrangements that specify the time that the minor child(ren) will

spend with each parent,

$A designation of who will be responsible for any and all forms of health care, school-related matters, other activities, and

$The methods and technologies that the parents will use to communicate with the child(ren).

The best interests of the child(ren) is the primary consideration in the Parenting Plan. In creating the Parenting Plan, all circumstances between the parties, including the parties’ historic relationship, domestic violence, and other factors must be taken into consideration.

This standard form does not include every possible issue that may be relevant to the facts of your case. The Parenting Plan should be as detailed as possible to address the time-sharing schedule. Additional provisions should be added to address all of the relevant factors. The parties should give special consideration to the age and needs of each child.

In developing the Parenting Plan, you may wish to consult or review other materials which are available at your local library, law library or through national and state family organizations.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, O‘ Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900 (a), before he or she helps you. A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE _____________________ JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR _________________ COUNTY, FLORIDA

Case No: _____________________

Division: _____________________

_______________________________

Petitioner,

and

_______________________________

 

 

Respondent.

 

 

PARENTING PLAN

This parenting plan is: (T Choose only one)

[

]

A Parenting Plan submitted to the court with the agreement of the parties.

[

]

A proposed Parenting Plan submitted by or on behalf of:

 

 

(Parent’s Name)_______________________________________________.

[

]

A Parenting Plan ordered by the court.

This parenting plan is: (T Choose only one)

[

]

A Final Parenting Plan signed by the court.

[

]

A temporary Parenting Plan signed by the court.

[ ] A Modification of a prior Final Parenting Plan or prior final order.

I.PARENTS Mother

Name:__________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number:_______________________________________________________

E-Mail:_________________________________________________________________

Father

Name:__________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number:_______________________________________________________

E-Mail:_________________________________________________________________

II.CHILDREN: This parenting plan is for the following child(ren) born to, or adopted by the parties:

NameDate of Birth Sex

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

_______________________________________________________________________

III.JURISDICTION

The United States is the country of habitual residence of the child(ren).

The State of Florida maintains the most significant contacts with the child(ren) and is the most appropriate forum for addressing parenting contact and time-sharing.

The State of Florida is the child(ren)’s home state for the purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act.

This Parenting Plan is a child custody determination for the purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, the International Child Abduction Remedies Act, 42 U.S.C. ss 11601 et seq., the Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act, and the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction enacted at the Hague on October 25, 1980.

IV.

PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY AND DECISION MAKING

 

 

 

 

1.

Parental Responsibility (T Choose only one)

 

 

 

 

 

G

Shared Parental Responsibility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is in the best interests of the child(ren) that the parties have full parental rights to make major

 

 

decisions affecting the welfare of the child(ren). Major decisions include, but are not limited to,

 

 

decisions about the child(ren)’s education, non-emergency healthcare, and religious training.

 

 

The major decisions regarding the child(ren) are shared between the Mother and Father as follows:

 

 

Education/Academic decisions

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

 

Non-emergency health care

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

Extra-curricular activities

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

 

Religion/Religious Training

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

___________________________

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

 

___________________________

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

 

 

___________________________

[ ] Mother

[ ] Father

[ ] Both

 

OR

GSole Parental Responsibility:

It is in the best interests of the child(ren) that the [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have sole authority to make major decisions for the child(ren.)

2.Day-to-Day Decisions

Each parent shall make decisions regarding day-to-day care and control of each child while the child is residing with the parent. Regardless of the allocation of decision making in the parenting plan, either parent may make emergency decisions affecting the health or safety of the child(ren) when the child is residing with that parent. A parent who makes an emergency decision shall share the decision with the other parent as soon as reasonably possibly.

V.INFORMATION SHARING. Unless otherwise indicated or ordered by the Court:

Both parents shall have access to medical and school records pertaining to the child(ren) and shall be permitted to independently consult with any and all professionals involved with the child(ren). The parents shall cooperate with each other in sharing information related to the health, education, and welfare of the child(ren) and they shall sign any necessary documentation ensuring that both parents have access to said records.

Each parent shall be responsible for obtaining records and reports directly from the school and health care providers.

Both parents have equal rights to inspect and receive governmental agency and law enforcement records concerning the child(ren).

Both parents shall have equal and independent authority to confer with the child(ren)’s

school, day care, health care providers, and other programs with regard to the child(ren)’s educational, emotional, and social progress.

Both parents shall be listed as “emergency contacts” for the child(ren).

Each parent has a continuing responsibility to provide a residential, mailing, or contact address and contact telephone number to the other parent. Each parent shall notify the other parent in writing within 24 hours of any changes. Each parent shall notify the court in writing within seven (7) days of any changes.

VI.

TIME SHARING SCHEDULE

 

1.

Weekday and Weekend Schedule

 

 

The following schedule shall apply beginning _________________________. The first weekend

 

 

shall be with the [ ] Mother [ ]Father.

A.The child(ren) shall spend time with the Mother on the following dates and times:

WEEKENDS: G Every G Every Other G Other (specify) _________

From________________________ to ____________________________.

WEEKDAYS: Specify days ___________________________________

From ________________________ to ____________________________.

OTHER: (Specify) ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

B.The child(ren) shall spend time with the Father on the following dates and times:

WEEKENDS: G Every G Every Other G Other (specify) _________

From________________________ to ____________________________.

WEEKDAYS: Specify days ____________________________________

From ________________________ to ____________________________.

OTHER: (Specify) ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

C.Check box if there is a different time sharing schedule for any child. Complete a separate Attachment for each child for whom there is a different time sharing schedule.

G There is a different time-sharing schedule for the following child(ren) in Attachment

____.

______________________________, and _________________________.

(Name of Child)

(Name of Child)

2.Holiday Schedule (T Choose only one)

G No holiday time sharing shall apply. The regular time-sharing schedule set forth above shall apply.

G Holiday time-sharing shall be as the parties agree.

G Holiday time-sharing shall be in accordance with the following schedule. The Holiday schedule will take priority over the regular weekday, weekend, and summer schedules. Fill in the blanks with Mother or Father to indicate where the child(ren) will be for the holidays. Provide the beginning and ending times. If a holiday is not specified as even, odd, or every year with one parent, then the child(ren) will remain with the parent in accordance with the regular schedule

Holidays

Even Years

Odd Years

Every Year

Begin/End Time

Mother’s Day

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Father’s day

__________

_________

__________

_________________

President’s Day

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Martin Luther King Day

________

_________

__________

_________________

Easter

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Passover

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Memorial Day Weekend

________

_________

__________

_________________

4th of July

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Labor Day Weekend

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Columbus Day Weekend

_______

_________

__________

_________________

Halloween

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Thanksgiving

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Hanukkah

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Yom Kippur

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Rosh Hashanah

__________

_________

__________

_________________

Child(ren)’s Birthdays

__________

_________

__________

_________________

_______________

__________

_________

__________

_________________

_______________

__________

_________

__________

_________________

This holiday schedule may affect the regular Time-Sharing Schedule. Parents may wish to specify one or more of the following options:

QWhen the parents are using an alternating weekend plan and the holiday schedule would result in one parent having the child(ren) for three weekends in a row, the alternating weekend pattern will restart so that neither parent will go without having the child(ren) for more than two weekends in a row.

QIf a parent has the child(ren) on a weekend with an unspecified holiday or non-school day, they shall have the child(ren) for the holiday or non-school day.

3.Winter Break (T Choose only one)

G The [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the child(ren) from the day and time school is dismissed until December _____ at ___ a.m./p. m in [ ]odd-numbered years [ ] even- numbered years [ ] every year. The other parent will have the children for the second one- half of the Winter Break. The parties shall alternative the arrangement each year.

G The [ ]Mother [ ]Father shall have the child(ren) for the entire Winter Break during [ ] odd-numbered years [ ] even-numbered years [ ] every year.

G Other: ______________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

4.Spring Break (T Choose only one)

G The parents shall follow the regular schedule.

G The parents shall alternative the entire Spring Break with the Mother having the child(ren) during the [ ]odd-numbered years [ ]even numbered years.

G The [ ]Father [ ]Mother shall have the child(ren) for the entire Spring Break every year.

G The Spring Break will be evenly divided. The first half of the spring Break will go to the parent whose regularly scheduled weekend falls on the first half and the second half going to the parent whose weekend falls during the second half.

GOther:______________________________________________________.

5.Summer Break (T Choose only one)

GThe parents shall follow the regular schedule through the summer.

GThe [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the entire Summer Break from __________ after school is out until _______________ before school starts.

GThe parents shall equally divide the Summer Break. During [ ] odd-numbered years [ ] even numbered years, the [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the children from ________

after school is out until ________. The other parent shall have the child(ren) for the

second one-half of the summer break. The parents shall alternative the first and second one-halves each year unless otherwise agreed. During the extended periods of time- sharing, the other parent shall have the child(ren) ______________________________.

GOther:______________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

6.Number of Overnights:

Based upon the time-sharing schedule, the Mother has a total of _____ overnights per year and the Father has a total of _____ overnights per year. Note: The two numbers must equal 365.

VII. TRANSPORTATION AND EXCHANGE OF CHILD(REN)

1.Transportation (T Choose only one)

G

The [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall provide all transportation.

GThe parent beginning their time-sharing shall provide transportation for the child(ren).

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

2.Exchange (T Choose only one)

Both parents shall have the child(ren) ready on time with sufficient clothing packed and ready at the agreed upon time of exchange. If a parent is more than ______ minutes late without contacting the other parent to make other arrangements, the parent with the child(ren) may proceed with other plans and activities.

GExchanges shall be at Mother’s and Father’s homes unless both parents agree to a different meeting place.

GExchanges shall occur at _______________________________________

____________________________________________________________ unless both parties agree in advance to a different meeting place.

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

3.Transportation Costs (T Choose only one)

GTransportation costs are included in the Child Support Worksheets and/or the Order for Child Support and should not be included here.

GThe Mother shall pay ______% and the Father shall pay ______ % of the transportation costs.

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

4.Foreign and Out-Of-State Travel (T Choose only one)

GEither parent may travel with the child(ren) during his/her time-sharing. The parent traveling with the child(ren) shall give the other parent at least ____ days written notice before traveling out of state unless there is an emergency, and shall provide the other parent with a detailed itinerary, including locations and telephone numbers where the child(ren) and parent can be reached at least ____ before traveling.

GEither may travel out of the country with the child(ren) during his/her time-sharing. At least ___ days prior to traveling, the parent shall provide detailed itinerary, including locations, and telephone numbers where the child(ren) and parent may be reached during the trip. Each parent agrees

to provide whatever documentation is necessary for the other parent to take the

child(ren) out of the county.

GIf a parents wishes travel out of the country with the children, he/she shall provide the following security for the return of the child ______________

___________________________________________________________.

GOther _____________________________________________________.

VIII.

SCHOOL DESIGNATION

 

For school and school district purposes, the [ ] Mother [ ]Father’s address shall be designated.

IX.

DESIGNATION OF CUSTODIAN FOR OTHER LEGAL PURPOSES

 

The child(ren) named in this Parenting Plan are scheduled to reside the majority of the time with the [ ]

 

Mother [ ] Father. This parent is designated as the custodian of the child(ren) SOLELY for purposes of all

 

other state and federal statutes which require a designation or determination of custody. This designation

 

does not affect either parent’s rights and responsibilities under this parenting plan.

X.COMMUNICATION

1.Between Parents

All communications regarding the child(ren) shall be between the parents. The parents shall not use the child(ren) as messengers to convey information, ask questions, or set up schedule changes.

The parents shall communicate with each other by:

G in person

G by telephone

Gby letter

Gby e-mail

GOther:_____________________________________________________.

2.Between Parent and Child(ren)

Both parents shall keep contact information current. Telephone or other electronic communication shall not be monitored by or interrupted by the other parent. “Electronic communication” includes telephones, electronic mail or e-mail, webcams, video-conferencing equipment and software or other wired or wireless technologies or other means of communication to supplement face-to face contact.

The child(ren) may have [ ] telephone [ ] e-mail [ ] other electronic communication in the form of

___________________________________ with the other parent:

GAnytime

GEveryday during the hours of _______________ to _________________.

GOn the following days_________________________________________

during the hours of _____________________ to ___________________.

GOther:______________________________________________________.

3.Costs of Electronic Communication

The Mother shall pay _____% and the Father shall pay _____% of the additional costs incurred in order to

implement electronic communication with the child(ren).

XI.

CHILD CARE (T Choose only one)

 

G

Each parent may select appropriate child care providers

 

G

All child care providers must be agreed upon by both parents.

 

G

Each parent must offer the other parent the opportunity to care for the child(ren) before using a

child care provider for any period exceeding _______ hours.

GOther ____________________________________________________________.

XII. CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS OF THE PARENTING PLAN

This Parenting Plan may be modified or varied on a temporary basis when both parents agree in writing. When the parents do not agree, the Parenting Plan remains in effect.

Any substantial changes to the Parenting Plan must be sought through the filing of a supplemental petition for modification.

XIII. RELOCATION

Any relocation of the child(ren) is subject to and must be sought in compliance with s. 61.13001, Fla. Stat.

XIII. DISPUTES

Parents shall attempt to cooperatively resolve any disputes which may arise over the terms of the Parenting Plan. If such attempt fails (T Choose only one):

GThe parents shall use mediation or other dispute resolution methods before filing a court action.

GMediation or other dispute resolution methods will NOT be required prior to filing a court action.

XIV. OTHER PROVISIONS

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________.

SIGNATURE OF PARENTS

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this Plan and intend to be bound by it.

Dated: _____________________________ __________________________________

Signature of Father

Printed Name: _______________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: ______________________

Telephone Number: ___________________

Fax Number: ________________________

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF ____________________.

Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on ____________ by ________________________.

___________________________________

NOTARY PUBLIC or DEPUTY CLERK

___________________________________

[Print, type, or stamp commissioned name of notary or clerk]

__ Personally known

__ Produced identification. Type of identification produced _____________________________.

__________________________________
Signature of Mother
Printed Name: _______________________
Address: ____________________________
City, State, Zip: ______________________
Telephone Number: ___________________
Fax Number: ________________________

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this Plan and intend to be bound by it.

Dated: _____________________________

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF ____________________.

Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on ____________ by ________________________.

___________________________________

NOTARY PUBLIC or DEPUTY CLERK

___________________________________

[Print, type, or stamp commissioned name of notary or clerk]

__ Personally known

__ Produced identification. Type of identification produced _____________________________.

ORDER OF THE COURT

It is ordered and adjudged that the Parenting Plan set forth above is adopted and approved as an order of this court. ORDERED ON ___________________________.

__________________________________

CIRCUIT JUDGE

COPIES TO:

Father (or his Attorney)

Mother (or her Attorney)

Other

Form Specifications

Fact Name Details
Usage This form is utilized in all cases involving time-sharing with minor children, regardless of whether time-sharing is disputed.
Supervised Time-Sharing If supervised time-sharing is required, a different form, the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan, must be used.
Signature Requirements Both parties must sign the Parenting Plan, and their signatures must be witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk.
Filing Instructions The completed form must be filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the relevant county, and a copy should be retained for personal records.
Best Interests of the Child The primary consideration in the Parenting Plan is the best interests of the child(ren).
Jurisdiction The State of Florida is designated as the home state of the child(ren) for custody determination purposes.
Information Sharing Both parents have equal rights to access medical and educational records pertaining to the child(ren).
Time-Sharing Schedule The Parenting Plan must include a detailed time-sharing schedule outlining when each parent will spend time with the child(ren).
Governing Law The Parenting Plan is governed by Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes, which addresses child custody and time-sharing.

Parenting Plan Examples Florida: Usage Guidelines

Filling out the Parenting Plan form in Florida requires careful attention to detail. This form is crucial for establishing how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children. After completing the form, it is essential to file it with the appropriate court and keep a copy for personal records. Below are the steps to help you fill out the Parenting Plan form accurately.

  1. Begin by entering the name of the judicial circuit and the county at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the case number and division, if applicable.
  3. Identify the parties involved by entering the names of the Petitioner and Respondent.
  4. Select the type of Parenting Plan you are submitting by checking the appropriate box.
  5. Specify whether the Parenting Plan is final, temporary, or a modification of a prior plan by checking the corresponding box.
  6. Provide the names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses of both parents in the designated sections.
  7. List the names, dates of birth, and sexes of all children covered by the plan.
  8. Confirm the jurisdiction by stating that the United States is the habitual residence of the children and that Florida is the appropriate forum.
  9. Choose how parental responsibility will be shared by checking either shared or sole parental responsibility.
  10. Detail the day-to-day decision-making process for each parent while the child is in their care.
  11. Outline the information-sharing provisions, ensuring both parents have access to medical and school records.
  12. Establish the time-sharing schedule, indicating the specific days and times the children will spend with each parent, including weekends and weekdays.
  13. Specify any holiday schedules, including which parent will have the children on specific holidays.
  14. Detail arrangements for winter break, spring break, and summer break, indicating which parent will have the children during these times.
  15. Review the completed form for accuracy and completeness.
  16. Have both parents sign the Parenting Plan in the presence of a notary public or deputy clerk.
  17. File the original Parenting Plan with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed.
  18. Keep a copy of the filed Parenting Plan for your records.

Your Questions, Answered

What is the purpose of the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form?

This form is used in cases involving time-sharing with minor children. It outlines how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children. Even if time-sharing is not in dispute, it is essential to create a clear plan. If supervised time-sharing is necessary, a different form should be used. The Parenting Plan must be signed by both parties and notarized if an agreement is reached.

What details must be included in the Parenting Plan?

The Parenting Plan should include several key components. It must detail how parents will share daily tasks related to raising their children. It should specify the time-sharing schedule, including when the children will be with each parent. Additionally, it needs to designate who is responsible for healthcare, education, and other activities. Communication methods between parents and children should also be included. The plan should reflect the best interests of the children and consider their age and needs.

What happens if the parties cannot agree on a Parenting Plan?

If the parents do not file an agreed Parenting Plan, the court will establish one. This means that the court will make decisions regarding time-sharing and parental responsibilities based on what it believes is in the best interests of the children. It is essential to try to reach an agreement to avoid court intervention.

How do I file the Parenting Plan after completing it?

Can I get help filling out the Parenting Plan form?

Yes, you can seek help from a nonlawyer to fill out the forms. However, they must provide you with a Disclosure from Nonlawyer before assisting you. This disclosure ensures you understand that the person helping you is not an attorney. They must also include their contact information on the forms they assist you with. Always ensure that you understand the content of the forms before submission.

Common mistakes

  1. Inadequate Detail in the Parenting Plan: Many individuals fail to provide enough detail in their parenting plans. The plan should clearly outline how daily responsibilities will be shared, the time-sharing schedule, and other essential aspects of the child's upbringing.

  2. Neglecting to Consider the Child's Best Interests: Some parents overlook the primary consideration of the child's best interests. It is crucial to account for the child's age, needs, and any special circumstances that may affect their well-being.

  3. Not Including All Relevant Factors: A common mistake is not addressing all relevant factors in the parenting plan. This includes communication methods, healthcare responsibilities, and school-related matters, which should all be explicitly mentioned.

  4. Failure to Update Information: Parents often forget to notify each other or the court about changes in their contact information. Each parent has a responsibility to provide current addresses and phone numbers, ensuring effective communication.

  5. Ignoring the Need for a Holiday Schedule: Some plans do not include a holiday schedule, which can lead to confusion. Clearly defining holiday time-sharing arrangements is essential to avoid misunderstandings.

  6. Inconsistent Time-Sharing Schedule: A lack of clarity in the time-sharing schedule can create conflict. Parents should ensure that the schedule is consistent and easy to follow, specifying exact times and dates for each parent's time with the child.

  7. Overlooking the Importance of Signature and Notarization: Lastly, some individuals neglect to have the parenting plan signed and notarized. Both parties must sign the plan, and it should be witnessed to ensure its validity in court.

Documents used along the form

When navigating the complexities of family law in Florida, several documents often accompany the Parenting Plan. Each of these forms serves a specific purpose and helps clarify various aspects of child custody and parenting responsibilities. Understanding these documents can aid parents in ensuring that their rights and obligations are clearly defined and legally recognized.

  • Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: This form initiates the legal process for divorce. It outlines the grounds for the divorce and requests the court to dissolve the marriage, often including preliminary matters related to child custody and support.
  • Answer to Petition for Dissolution of Marriage: This document is filed by the responding spouse to address the claims made in the petition. It allows the respondent to agree, disagree, or propose modifications to the requests presented by the petitioner.
  • Financial Affidavit: This form provides a detailed account of each parent's financial situation, including income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. It is crucial for determining child support obligations and equitable distribution of marital assets.
  • Child Support Guidelines Worksheet: This worksheet calculates the amount of child support one parent may owe to the other. It considers various factors, including income and the time-sharing schedule established in the Parenting Plan.
  • Notice of Hearing: This document informs all parties involved about the date and time of a court hearing related to the case. It ensures that both parents have the opportunity to present their arguments before the judge.
  • Temporary Relief Motion: This motion requests immediate court orders regarding child custody, support, or visitation while the divorce proceedings are ongoing. It addresses urgent needs before a final decision is made.
  • Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan: This specialized form is used when there are concerns about a child's safety during time-sharing. It outlines specific conditions under which parenting time may occur under supervision.
  • Disclosure from Nonlawyer: If a nonlawyer assists in completing any forms, this document must be provided. It confirms that the nonlawyer has disclosed their identity and role in the process, ensuring transparency and compliance with legal standards.

These documents collectively contribute to a clearer understanding of each parent’s responsibilities and rights, helping to facilitate a smoother resolution in family law matters. Familiarity with these forms can empower parents to navigate the legal landscape more effectively, ultimately serving the best interests of their children.

Similar forms

The Parenting Plan Examples Florida form is similar to several other documents that also address child custody and parenting arrangements. Below are four documents that share similarities with the Parenting Plan:

  • Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan: This document is used when time-sharing involves supervision due to safety concerns. Like the Parenting Plan, it outlines the responsibilities of each parent and the time-sharing schedule, but it focuses on ensuring the child's safety during visits.
  • Child Custody Agreement: This agreement details the custody arrangements between parents. Similar to the Parenting Plan, it specifies how parental responsibilities are shared and includes a time-sharing schedule. Both documents aim to serve the best interests of the child.
  • Temporary Parenting Plan: A Temporary Parenting Plan is often used during divorce proceedings before a final agreement is reached. It shares the same structure as the Parenting Plan, outlining time-sharing and responsibilities, but is intended for a limited duration until a final decision is made.
  • Modification of Parenting Plan: This document is filed when changes to an existing Parenting Plan are necessary. It maintains the same focus on the child's best interests and includes updated time-sharing arrangements and responsibilities, similar to the original Parenting Plan.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form, it is essential to follow specific guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Below is a list of ten things to do and avoid during this process.

  • Do use black ink or type the form to ensure clarity.
  • Do provide detailed information about the time-sharing schedule for each child.
  • Do include both parents' names, addresses, and contact information accurately.
  • Do specify how major decisions regarding the child(ren) will be made.
  • Do sign the form in the presence of a notary public or deputy clerk if an agreement is reached.
  • Don't leave any sections blank; provide information for all required fields.
  • Don't use ambiguous language; be as clear and specific as possible.
  • Don't submit the form without making a copy for your records.
  • Don't ignore the instructions regarding jurisdiction and the best interests of the child(ren).
  • Don't forget to notify the other parent of any changes in contact information or circumstances.

By adhering to these guidelines, individuals can facilitate a smoother process when completing the Parenting Plan form.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form can lead to confusion. Here are nine common misunderstandings along with clarifications to help you navigate the process more easily.

  • Only parents in conflict need a Parenting Plan. This form is required in all cases involving time-sharing with minor children, regardless of whether there is a dispute.
  • The form is only for custody disputes. It is also used when parents agree on time-sharing arrangements, ensuring clarity and structure.
  • Notarization is optional. If both parties have reached an agreement, their signatures must be witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk.
  • All details are covered in the standard form. The form does not include every possible issue. Parents should provide additional details relevant to their situation.
  • The Parenting Plan is permanent. It can be modified if circumstances change. A new plan can be submitted to the court for approval.
  • Only one parent can make decisions. Shared parental responsibility is common, allowing both parents to make significant decisions affecting their children.
  • Communication methods are not necessary. The plan must include how parents will communicate with their children, ensuring that both are involved in their upbringing.
  • Filing is a one-time process. After submitting the Parenting Plan, parents should keep a copy and stay informed about any necessary hearings or updates.
  • Legal help is not needed. While parents can fill out the form themselves, consulting with a legal expert can provide valuable guidance and ensure all aspects are covered.

Understanding these misconceptions can help you approach the Parenting Plan process with confidence. Clear communication and thorough documentation are key to a successful arrangement.

Key takeaways

Key Takeaways for Using the Parenting Plan Examples Florida Form

  • This form is essential for all cases involving time-sharing with minor children, regardless of whether time-sharing is contested.
  • In cases requiring supervised time-sharing, a different form specifically designed for that purpose should be used.
  • The Parenting Plan must be completed in black ink, either typed or printed, to ensure clarity and legibility.
  • Both parties must sign the Parenting Plan if an agreement is reached, and signatures need to be witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk.
  • After completion, the original form should be filed with the circuit court clerk, and a copy should be retained for personal records.
  • The Parenting Plan must include detailed arrangements for daily responsibilities, time-sharing schedules, healthcare decisions, and communication methods.
  • It is crucial to prioritize the best interests of the child when creating the Parenting Plan, considering all relevant factors.
  • Consulting additional resources, such as local libraries or family organizations, can provide further guidance on developing a comprehensive Parenting Plan.