Parenting Plan
At NLG Divorce & Family Law, we understand that nothing is more important than your children, and navigating parenting plans during a divorce or paternity case can be emotionally charged and complex. Whether you're establishing a new plan or modifying an existing one, our experienced Tampa family law attorneys are here to advocate for your parental rights and create a plan that supports your child’s best interests and long-term well-being.
What is a Parenting Plan in Florida?
A Parenting Plan is a required document in any divorce or paternity case involving minor children. This plan outlines how parents will share time, responsibilities, and decision-making for their child. Courts prioritize the child’s best interests above all else.
A Parenting Plan covers:
Time-sharing schedule (also known as visitation or custody)
Parental responsibility for major decisions (education, health care, etc.)
Methods of communication between parents and children
Transportation and exchanges for time-sharing
Guidelines for resolving future disputes
Florida law does not use terms like “custody” or “visitation”—instead, it focuses on shared parental responsibility and time-sharing.
Parenting Plans 101
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Florida courts may assign:
Shared Parental Responsibility – Both parents make decisions together.
Sole Parental Responsibility – One parent makes decisions alone, typically in cases involving abuse, neglect, or unfitness.
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Each plan is tailored to the family’s specific needs. Some parents agree on 50/50 time-sharing, while others follow a different schedule based on work, school, or other factors.
Common arrangements include:
Alternating weeks
2-2-3 schedules
Extended weekends
Split holidays and school breaks
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If circumstances change—such as a relocation, job change, or a child’s evolving needs—you can petition the court to modify the parenting plan. Florida courts require a substantial, unanticipated change in circumstances to approve modifications.
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A poorly drafted parenting plan can lead to confusion, disputes, and unnecessary court visits. Our experienced family law attorneys help you draft or review a plan that protects your rights and prioritizes your child’s well-being.
Why Choose Our Team?
At NLG Divorce & Family Law, we recognize that your parenting plan isn’t just a legal document—it’s the foundation for your child’s future and your relationship with them. Our team brings years of focused experience in Florida family law, helping parents craft parenting plans that are practical, enforceable, and tailored to their unique family dynamics.
We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Whether you’re facing a high-conflict custody dispute or seeking a cooperative resolution, we provide compassionate guidance and strong advocacy every step of the way. We work to protect your parental rights while prioritizing what truly matters: the health, happiness, and stability of your child.
Let our Tampa parenting plan attorneys help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
