In 2023, Florida passed a new law changing how courts decide parental time-sharing. The law supports that kids do best when they spend equal time with both parents.
This law affects families dealing with custody and time-sharing issues.
Key Points of the New Law
If you are a parent sharing time with your ex-spouse, here are the main things to know about the recent changes:
- Easier Changes to Parenting Plans: Before, you could only change plans if the child’s situation changed unexpectedly. Now, that rule is gone, making it easier to update plans.
- Equal Time-Sharing: The law prioritizes the child’s needs and only changes this view when proven otherwise.
- Shared Parenting Duties: The court usually orders shared parenting unless there’s proof it would hurt the child, like in domestic violence cases.
- Parent Moving Closer: If a parent moves nearer to where the child mainly lives, the court may allow changes to the parenting plan.
- Access to Child’s Records: Both parents can see their child’s records unless a court says no.
The court will then examine all these points and decide what is best for the child.
What This Means for You
You can now ask to change parenting plans more quickly if your family’s situation changes, even for small changes. You can also expect equal time with your child, as the law starts with this idea unless there is proof that it is not good. Lastly, even if you do not have custody, you can still see your child’s records.
This change underscores the importance of both parents in a child’s life, aiming to foster healthier, more balanced family dynamics. By understanding this and preparing accordingly, you can navigate your custody case more effectively.