What Should Be Included In A Parenting Plan in Tampa, Florida?

Any divorce case in Florida that involves children will require a parenting plan. Parents can agree to and create a plan on their own but if they cannot, the court will determine a parenting plan. It is not always easy for parents to create a parenting plan on their own. The court places certain requirements on these plans and if it does not include certain elements, the court may deem it invalid. If you are getting a divorce and need to create a plan with your spouse, below are four elements you must include in it.

Division of Parental Responsibilities and Rights

The parenting plan should detail which parent will be in charge of making important decisions for the child. These decisions can include matters pertaining to healthcare, education, religious upbringing, extracurricular activities, and discipline. If each parent will have a responsibility in making these decisions, the plan should explain in detail the role each person will play.

Time-Sharing Schedule

One of the most important elements of a parenting plan, and the one people most often think of, is the time-sharing schedule. Although this can outline when the child will spend time with each parent day-to-day, there are other elements to include in the schedule, as well. For example, you may outline how the schedule will change as the child ages, and include arrangements for special occasions, such as holidays and the child’s birthday. Also include how transportation will be managed when dropping the child off and picking them up.

Communication with the Other Parent

In the best of cases, the two parents can remain civil, and sometimes even friendly, after a divorce. This can make communicating with the other parent very easy. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. People sometimes cannot see their former spouse after the divorce without becoming involved in an argument. Regardless of the relationship, the parenting plan should include details about how the parents will communicate with each other about the children. Also include how you will communicate with the children when they are with the other parent.

Future Changes

There is always a chance that circumstances will change in the future, and your parenting plan will have to change along with it. Include in the parenting plan how you will make these changes. If you and your former spouse can agree, it is possible to make these changes outside of court.

Our Family Lawyers in Tampa Bay Can Help with Your Parenting Plan

Creating a parenting plan may sound fairly straightforward, but that is not always the case. Not only must you include certain elements, but it must also be written in a way that does not leave any opportunity for misinterpretation. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa family lawyers can help with your plan and ensure it is fair and will be approved by the court. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation. Se habla Español.