What Is a Parenting Plan in Florida?
A parenting plan is the formal, court-approved document that governs how parents will raise their child after a divorce or paternity case in Florida. It establishes the time-sharing schedule, how the parents will share parental responsibility, and how they will handle communication and decision-making going forward.
What a Parenting Plan Includes
A Florida parenting plan typically addresses:
The time-sharing schedule — which days and times the child spends with each parent
How holidays, school breaks, and special occasions are divided
How the parents will share decision-making (shared parental responsibility) over education, healthcare, and other major matters
How the parents will communicate with each other and with the child
Designation of the primary residence for school enrollment purposes
Transportation arrangements
How Is a Parenting Plan Created?
Parents can create a parenting plan by agreement and submit it to the court for approval. If parents cannot agree, the court will create a parenting plan after evaluating the best interests of the child. Either way, the plan must be approved and entered as a court order to be legally binding.
What the Course Covers About Parenting Plans
Module 8 of the Florida Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course — Parenting Time — covers the benefits of maintaining a relationship with both parents, how to develop a parenting plan, and effective communication strategies between co-parents.
Quick Facts
Detail | Information |
What it is | Court-approved document governing time-sharing and parental responsibility |
Created by | Parents by agreement, or by the court if parents cannot agree |
Must be | Approved by a judge to be legally binding |
Covered in the course | Yes — Module 8 (Parenting Time) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a parenting plan required in all Florida divorces with minor children? Yes. Florida law requires a parenting plan whenever a divorce or paternity case involves minor children.
Can we modify the parenting plan later? Yes. Either parent can request a modification if there has been a substantial change in circumstances. The court will evaluate whether the modification serves the child's best interests. Consult your attorney.
Does the parenting course help me create a parenting plan? The course covers the principles behind effective parenting plans and co-parenting strategies. It does not create a legal parenting plan for you — that must be done through the legal process with or without an attorney.