In Florida, custody arrangements during the divorce or separation process can be challenging and emotionally charged, especially when children are involved. To ensure that children have stability and structure during this transitional period, Florida courts can establish temporary parenting plans. These temporary plans serve as a blueprint for how parents will share responsibilities and time with their children until a final arrangement is reached.
Ft. Lauderdale Lawyer for Temporary Parenting Plans
If you are currently undergoing a divorce or are seeking counsel for an ongoing divorce, contact the experienced family law attorneys at Bacchus Law Firm today.
The Lawyers of Bacchus Law Firm are experienced family law professionals dedicated to getting families the closure that they need during hard times. Having provided counsel to numerous clients throughout the Greater Miami-metropolitan area, we take cases in Broward County, Palm Beach County, Collier County, and Miami-Dade County.
Our office is conveniently located at 401 E. Las Olas Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale, just minutes from Broward County Central Courthouse and we have taken cases in Miami, West Palm Beach, LaBelle, and East Naples, Florida.
Contact our office at (954) 500-5555 for a no-obligation consultation.
- What is a Temporary Parenting Plan?
- Factors Courts Consider When Establishing a Temporary Parenting Plan
- Examples of Temporary Parenting Plans in Practice
- Modifying a Temporary Parenting Plan
- Hire a Temporary Parenting Plan Lawyer in Broward County, FL
What is a Temporary Parenting Plan?
A temporary parenting plan is a court-ordered arrangement that outlines how parents will share time and responsibilities for their children while a divorce or custody case is pending. The temporary plan is intended to provide stability for the child during a period of significant change and uncertainty. It is also meant to serve as a guide for parents on how to best co-parent during the divorce process, ensuring that the child’s needs are prioritized.
Florida Statute 61.13 requires that the court establish a temporary parenting plan based on what is in the best interests of the child. The statute emphasizes that children benefit from having regular contact with both parents, and the court will strive to create an arrangement that supports a healthy relationship between the child and both parents. Temporary parenting plans typically address timesharing schedules, holiday arrangements, decision-making authority, and communication between parents.
Factors Courts Consider When Establishing a Temporary Parenting Plan
When creating a temporary parenting plan, the court considers many of the same factors that are used to determine a final parenting plan. These factors are outlined in Florida Statute 61.13 and include:
- The child’s needs and developmental stage: The court will evaluate the physical, emotional, and educational needs of the child to ensure that the temporary plan supports their well-being.
- The relationship between the child and each parent: The court will assess the strength of the child’s relationship with each parent and strive to create an arrangement that maintains or enhances those bonds.
- Parental fitness: The court will consider each parent’s ability to care for the child and provide a safe, nurturing environment. This includes evaluating each parent’s physical and mental health, as well as any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.
- Parental involvement: The court will look at each parent’s level of involvement in the child’s life, including their ability to meet the child’s needs, attend school events, and participate in extracurricular activities.
- The child’s preference: If the child is mature enough, the court may take into consideration their preference regarding timesharing and living arrangements.
The primary goal of the temporary parenting plan is to ensure that the child’s best interests are met during the period of transition. This means minimizing disruptions to the child’s daily routine, maintaining stability, and providing a sense of security as the family navigates the legal process.
Examples of Temporary Parenting Plans in Practice
To better understand how temporary parenting plans work in Florida, consider the following examples:
Example 1: Amanda and Tom are in the process of divorcing. They have two children, ages 8 and 12. The court establishes a temporary parenting plan that allows Amanda and Tom to share custody on a 50/50 basis, alternating weeks. This arrangement provides stability for the children by allowing them to maintain strong relationships with both parents. The plan also includes provisions for the upcoming holiday season, with the parents alternating Thanksgiving and Christmas until a final agreement is reached.
Example 2: John and Emily have a four-year-old son, Lucas. Emily has been the primary caregiver, while John has worked long hours and has not been as involved in Lucas’s daily routine. The court issues a temporary parenting plan that gives Emily primary custody of Lucas, with John having timesharing on weekends. This arrangement allows Lucas to continue living in his familiar environment while still spending meaningful time with John.
Example 3: Samantha and Brian are separating, and there have been allegations of domestic violence against Brian. In this case, the court establishes a temporary parenting plan that requires supervised visitation for Brian to ensure Lucas’s safety. The plan will be in place until a full investigation is completed, and a final custody decision is made.
Modifying a Temporary Parenting Plan
Temporary parenting plans are not set in stone and can be modified if circumstances change or if new information becomes available. Either parent can file a motion to modify the temporary parenting plan if they believe that the current arrangement is not in the best interests of the child. For example, if a parent relocates or if there are significant changes in the child’s needs, the court may revisit and adjust the plan accordingly.
The process for modifying a temporary parenting plan is similar to establishing the plan initially. The parent requesting the change must demonstrate that the modification is necessary to support the child’s well-being. The court will evaluate the circumstances and make a decision based on what is in the child’s best interests.
Hire a Temporary Parenting Plan Lawyer in Broward County, FL
The Lawyers of Bacchus Law Firm are experienced family law professionals dedicated to getting families the closure that they need during hard times. Having provided counsel to numerous clients throughout the Greater Miami-metropolitan area, we take cases in Broward County, Palm Beach County, Collier County, and Miami-Dade County.
Our office is conveniently located at 401 E. Las Olas Blvd. in Ft. Lauderdale, just minutes from Broward County Central Courthouse and we have taken cases in Miami, West Palm Beach, LaBelle, and East Naples, Florida.
Contact our office at (954) 500-5555 for a no-obligation consultation.
