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Timesharing

Florida Law Firm Handles Time-Sharing and Custody Disputes

Florida is a modern state that has evolved from using the term “custody” to “time-sharing” when it comes to parents sharing children. Coplan-Gardner and Gardner, PA, has years of experience handling these complex types of cases and works with parents to create a cohesive parenting plan.

How is Time-Sharing Determined?

Both parents generally have time with their children unless a court finds that one parent is detrimental to the child’s health and wellbeing. If a parent has a first-degree misdemeanor or domestic violence conviction, this could create a rebuttable presumption where the court assumes the child would be in harm’s way. Even if parents do not have shared time, most parents can usually still see their child under “supervised time-sharing.” Generally, there are three different types of time-sharing: majority time-sharing, equal time-sharing and supervised time-sharing.

Time-Sharing Guidelines

According to Florida laws, there are several things courts consider when approving parenting plans, such as:

  • Ensuring that children are safe, secure and in a stable environment
  • Minimizing any disruption or loss to children
  • Maximizing the relationship between children and parents
  • Shielding children from any conflict
  • Anticipating and planning for any upcoming changes in circumstances that may arise

Enforcing Time-Sharing

When the court orders time-sharing, visitation and support, it means the law backs up these decisions. Parties are required to adhere to the terms of these orders, or a judge can find them in contempt. Sometimes the parties are not willing to comply with these terms, which is when it becomes necessary to either enforce or modify the agreement.

If a parent is in violation of time-sharing and our attorneys file a motion of civil contempt, the violating party could be forced to comply. Additionally, they could face jail time, paying your attorney fees and all court-related costs and any other reliefs permitted by law.

Modification of Time-Sharing Agreements

Florida allows modifications to time-sharing agreements if there are unanticipated, substantial or material facts or changes that arise in the circumstances. Florida courts will approve parenting plans that have time-sharing agreements based on what is in the best interest of the child.

How Relocation Impacts Time-Sharing Agreements

The consequences of child custody and time-sharing in the event a parent relocates to another city or state can be devastating. The easiest way to retain joint custody time-sharing is for both parents to agree. If the parents are not in agreement, then a court will decide where the child should remain and the future visitation schedule.

Dedicated to Serving Our Clients

Coplan Gardner & Gardner is dedicated to serving our clients in the greater Jacksonville Beach, Florida area. We provide top-rated law services under a boutique-style structure.

If you are facing a child custody battle and want to receive time-sharing rights, contact our team today to schedule an appointment. Our attorneys have more than 40 years of combined family law experience and can help review your case and represent you in court. We honor and support our military, firefighters, police, first responders and educators and offer discounts and free consultations.