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How to Create a Parenting Plan That Works in Florida

By James Lilly • 02/19/2026

When Florida parents go through a separation or divorce, one of the most important steps is developing a parenting plan that protects their child’s emotional and physical wellbeing. Florida courts require a parenting plan in all cases involving time-sharing, and the strength and clarity of this document can shape your family’s future for years to come.

At The Law Offices of James Lilly, PLLC, we help parents in Pompano Beach and throughout South Florida create parenting plans that truly work—practical, child-focused, and tailored to the unique needs of each family.

What Is a Parenting Plan in Florida?

A parenting plan is a legally binding document that outlines how separated or divorced parents will share responsibilities and time with their child. Under Florida law, every parenting plan must include:

  • Parental responsibility (how decisions about the child are made)

  • Time-sharing schedules

  • Communication guidelines between parents and child

  • Transportation and exchange responsibilities

  • Education, healthcare, and activity planning

  • Any special circumstances, including safety or medical considerations

Florida’s focus is always on the best interests of the child—and your parenting plan should reflect that.

What Makes a Florida Parenting Plan Truly Effective?

A workable, enforceable parenting plan is:

✔ Child-centered

The child’s routine, needs, and stability come first.

✔ Detailed and specific

Clear guidelines prevent arguments and confusion.

✔ Practical for both parents

A schedule must reflect real-life logistics—work hours, school, travel time.

✔ Flexible enough to adapt

Life changes; your plan should include ways to adjust when necessary.

✔ Built for long-term consistency

A strong plan will grow with your child, reducing the need for future disputes.

Core Components of a Florida Parenting Plan

1. Time-Sharing Schedule

Your plan should clearly outline:

  • Weekly time-sharing

  • Weekends

  • Holidays and school breaks

  • Summer schedules

  • Birthdays and special events

  • Exact pick-up and drop-off times

Florida favors frequent and continuing contact with both parents, meaning schedules should support meaningful involvement for each parent.

2. Parental Responsibility (Decision-Making Authority)

Florida recognizes:

  • Shared parental responsibility (most common)

  • Shared responsibility with one parent having ultimate decision-making authority

  • Sole parental responsibility (in cases involving safety concerns)

Your parenting plan must explain how decisions about healthcare, education, religion, and extracurricular activities will be made.

3. Communication Guidelines

Clear expectations can prevent unnecessary conflict. Your plan should include:

  • How parents will communicate (email, text, co-parenting app, etc.)

  • How children may contact the other parent during visits

  • Procedures for emergencies

4. Transportation & Exchanges

A solid plan will clarify:

  • Who provides transportation

  • Designated exchange locations

  • What happens if a parent is running late

This prevents misunderstandings and keeps transitions smooth for the child.

5. Travel and Relocation Rules

Your plan should spell out:

  • Out-of-state travel requirements

  • Notice periods for trips

  • Rules for obtaining passports

  • Agreement procedures for extended vacations

Under Florida Statute §61.13001, relocating more than 50 miles for 60+ days requires written consent or court approval.

6. Conflict Resolution Methods

To prevent future litigation, your plan may include:

  • Mediation or counseling requirements

  • Steps for requesting schedule changes

  • Guidelines for resolving disagreements

7. Special Needs or Special Considerations

If your child has medical needs, therapy, or an IEP/504 plan, those details must be included clearly and specifically.

Tips to Create a Florida Parenting Plan That Works

🌟 Be realistic about logistics

Overly ambitious schedules create tension and inconsistency.

🌟 Focus on your child’s needs at every age

What works for a toddler may not work for a teenager.

🌟 Build in flexibility

Flexibility reduces stress and promotes healthier co-parenting.

🌟 Use available tools

Co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard or TalkingParents help track schedules and communication.

🌟 Consult a Florida family law attorney

Parenting plans must comply with Florida law and hold up in court. An experienced attorney ensures your rights—and your child’s best interests—are protected.

What If Parents Can’t Agree on a Parenting Plan in Florida?

If parents cannot reach an agreement, Florida courts will create a parenting plan based on the child’s best interests. Judges evaluate:

  • Each parent’s involvement

  • Stability and safety of each home

  • Ability to co-parent respectfully

  • The child’s developmental needs

  • Any history of abuse or substance misuse

Reaching an agreement outside of court usually gives parents more control and reduces stress.

A Well-Crafted Parenting Plan Sets Your Family Up for Success

Your parenting plan is more than a legal requirement—it’s the foundation for your family’s future. By building a thoughtful, detailed, and Florida-compliant parenting plan, you protect your child’s stability while reducing future conflict.

At The Law Offices of James Lilly, PLLC, our mission is to help parents create plans that foster cooperation, minimize stress, and support a healthy co-parenting relationship.

Need Help Creating or Modifying a Parenting Plan in Florida?

Whether you're drafting a parenting plan for the first time or seeking to adjust an existing agreement, our experienced team can guide you every step of the way.

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