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Fill Out a Valid Parenting Plan Examples Florida Template

The Parenting Plan Examples Florida form, officially known as Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.9, is a critical instrument designed for use in cases involving time-sharing of minor children. This detailed form facilitates an agreement on the significant aspects of parenting and time-sharing schedules, ensuring both parties share responsibility for the well-being and upbringing of the child(ren). It serves the essential purpose of putting in place a structured arrangement that upholds the child(usp)(ren)'s best interests, addressing daily tasks, healthcare, school-related matters, and the preferred methods of communication between the parents and children.

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Fill Out a Valid Parenting Plan Examples Florida Template

Table of Contents

Navigating through the complexities of family dynamics during and after separation or divorce in Florida requires a carefully crafted Parenting Plan, as outlined in the Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.9. This form is not merely a document but a roadmap for sharing responsibilities and time with minor children, ensuring their well-being remains at the forefront of parental decisions. Required in all cases involving time-sharing, regardless of disputes, it clearly details how daily tasks, health care, school matters, and communication with the children will be managed between parents. In instances requiring supervised visitations, a specialized version of the plan, the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan, is employed to address these sensitive situations. Critical to its essence is the representation of the best interests of the child, taken into account alongside the historical relationship between parties, any occurrences of domestic violence, and other significant factors. This form, which must be filed with the circuit court of the originating petition, delineates the necessity for a detailed approach towards crafting a Parenting Plan, encouraging additional provisions to cater to the unique needs and circumstances of each family. It emphasizes the importance of detailed scheduling, shared parental responsibility, decision-making processes, and the unwavering focus on the child's best interests, guiding parents through the intricacies of co-parenting post-separation or divorce. Moreover, it serves as a legal affirmation of the parenting arrangement agreed upon by the parties or, in the absence of agreement, what the Court deems fit for the child's welfare, thereby formalizing the future of co-parenting in the state of Florida.

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INSTRUCTIONS FOR FLORIDA SUPREME COURT APPROVED FAMILY LAW FORM 12.9--

PARENTING PLAN

When should this form be used?

This form should be used in all cases involving time-sharing with any minor child(ren), even when time- sharing is not in dispute. If the case involves supervised time-sharing, the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan, O“ Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.9– should be used.

This form should be typed or printed in black ink. If an Agreement has been reached, both parties must sign the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk. After completing this form, you should file the original with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records. You should then refer to the instructions for your petition, answer, or answer and counterpetition concerning the procedures for setting a hearing or trial (final hearing). If an agreed Parenting Plan is not filed by the parties, the Court shall establish a Plan.

Where can I look for more information?

Before proceeding, you should read “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” found at the beginning of these forms. The words that are in “bold underline” in these instructions are defined there. For further information, see chapter 61, Florida Statutes, and the instructions for the petition and/or answer that were filed in this case.

Special notes...

At a minimum, the Parenting Plan must describe in adequate detail:

$How the parties will share and be responsible for the daily tasks associated with the upbringing of the child(ren),

$The time-sharing schedule arrangements that specify the time that the minor child(ren) will

spend with each parent,

$A designation of who will be responsible for any and all forms of health care, school-related matters, other activities, and

$The methods and technologies that the parents will use to communicate with the child(ren).

The best interests of the child(ren) is the primary consideration in the Parenting Plan. In creating the Parenting Plan, all circumstances between the parties, including the parties’ historic relationship, domestic violence, and other factors must be taken into consideration.

This standard form does not include every possible issue that may be relevant to the facts of your case. The Parenting Plan should be as detailed as possible to address the time-sharing schedule. Additional provisions should be added to address all of the relevant factors. The parties should give special consideration to the age and needs of each child.

In developing the Parenting Plan, you may wish to consult or review other materials which are available at your local library, law library or through national and state family organizations.

Remember, a person who is NOT an attorney is called a nonlawyer. If a nonlawyer helps you fill out these forms, that person must give you a copy of a Disclosure from Nonlawyer, O‘ Florida Family Law Rules of Procedure Form 12.900 (a), before he or she helps you. A nonlawyer helping you fill out these forms also must put his or her name, address, and telephone number on the bottom of the last page of every form he or she helps you complete.

IN THE CIRCUIT COURT OF THE _____________________ JUDICIAL CIRCUIT

IN AND FOR _________________ COUNTY, FLORIDA

Case No: _____________________

Division: _____________________

_______________________________

Petitioner,

and

_______________________________

		Respondent.
		PARENTING PLAN
This parenting plan is: (T Choose only one)
[	]	A Parenting Plan submitted to the court with the agreement of the parties.
[	]	A proposed Parenting Plan submitted by or on behalf of:
		(Parent’s Name)_______________________________________________.
[	]	A Parenting Plan ordered by the court.
This parenting plan is: (T Choose only one)
[	]	A Final Parenting Plan signed by the court.
[	]	A temporary Parenting Plan signed by the court.

[ ] A Modification of a prior Final Parenting Plan or prior final order.

I.PARENTS Mother

Name:__________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number:_______________________________________________________

E-Mail:_________________________________________________________________

Father

Name:__________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number:_______________________________________________________

E-Mail:_________________________________________________________________

II.CHILDREN: This parenting plan is for the following child(ren) born to, or adopted by the parties:

NameDate of Birth Sex

_______________________________________________________________________

III.JURISDICTION

The United States is the country of habitual residence of the child(ren).

The State of Florida maintains the most significant contacts with the child(ren) and is the most appropriate forum for addressing parenting contact and time-sharing.

The State of Florida is the child(ren)’s home state for the purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act.

This Parenting Plan is a child custody determination for the purposes of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act, the International Child Abduction Remedies Act, 42 U.S.C. ss 11601 et seq., the Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act, and the Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction enacted at the Hague on October 25, 1980.

IV.	PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY AND DECISION MAKING
	1.	Parental Responsibility (T Choose only one)
	G	Shared Parental Responsibility.
		It is in the best interests of the child(ren) that the parties have full parental rights to make major
		decisions affecting the welfare of the child(ren). Major decisions include, but are not limited to,
		decisions about the child(ren)’s education, non-emergency healthcare, and religious training.
		The major decisions regarding the child(ren) are shared between the Mother and Father as follows:
		Education/Academic decisions	[ ] Mother	[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		Non-emergency health care	[ ] Mother		[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		Extra-curricular activities	[ ] Mother	[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		Religion/Religious Training	[ ] Mother		[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		___________________________	[ ] Mother	[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		___________________________	[ ] Mother	[ ] Father		[ ] Both
		___________________________	[ ] Mother	[ ] Father		[ ] Both

GSole Parental Responsibility:

It is in the best interests of the child(ren) that the [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have sole authority to make major decisions for the child(ren.)

2.Day-to-Day Decisions

Each parent shall make decisions regarding day-to-day care and control of each child while the child is residing with the parent. Regardless of the allocation of decision making in the parenting plan, either parent may make emergency decisions affecting the health or safety of the child(ren) when the child is residing with that parent. A parent who makes an emergency decision shall share the decision with the other parent as soon as reasonably possibly.

V.INFORMATION SHARING. Unless otherwise indicated or ordered by the Court:

Both parents shall have access to medical and school records pertaining to the child(ren) and shall be permitted to independently consult with any and all professionals involved with the child(ren). The parents shall cooperate with each other in sharing information related to the health, education, and welfare of the child(ren) and they shall sign any necessary documentation ensuring that both parents have access to said records.

Each parent shall be responsible for obtaining records and reports directly from the school and health care providers.

Both parents have equal rights to inspect and receive governmental agency and law enforcement records concerning the child(ren).

Both parents shall have equal and independent authority to confer with the child(ren)’s

school, day care, health care providers, and other programs with regard to the child(ren)’s educational, emotional, and social progress.

Both parents shall be listed as “emergency contacts” for the child(ren).

Each parent has a continuing responsibility to provide a residential, mailing, or contact address and contact telephone number to the other parent. Each parent shall notify the other parent in writing within 24 hours of any changes. Each parent shall notify the court in writing within seven (7) days of any changes.

VI.	TIME SHARING SCHEDULE
	1.	Weekday and Weekend Schedule
		The following schedule shall apply beginning _________________________. The first weekend
		shall be with the [ ] Mother [ ]Father.

A.The child(ren) shall spend time with the Mother on the following dates and times:

WEEKENDS: G Every G Every Other G Other (specify) _________

From________________________ to ____________________________.

WEEKDAYS: Specify days ___________________________________

From ________________________ to ____________________________.

OTHER: (Specify) ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

B.The child(ren) shall spend time with the Father on the following dates and times:

WEEKENDS: G Every G Every Other G Other (specify) _________

From________________________ to ____________________________.

WEEKDAYS: Specify days ____________________________________

From ________________________ to ____________________________.

OTHER: (Specify) ____________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

C.Check box if there is a different time sharing schedule for any child. Complete a separate Attachment for each child for whom there is a different time sharing schedule.

G There is a different time-sharing schedule for the following child(ren) in Attachment

____.

______________________________, and _________________________.

(Name of Child)

2.Holiday Schedule (T Choose only one)

G No holiday time sharing shall apply. The regular time-sharing schedule set forth above shall apply.

G Holiday time-sharing shall be as the parties agree.

G Holiday time-sharing shall be in accordance with the following schedule. The Holiday schedule will take priority over the regular weekday, weekend, and summer schedules. Fill in the blanks with Mother or Father to indicate where the child(ren) will be for the holidays. Provide the beginning and ending times. If a holiday is not specified as even, odd, or every year with one parent, then the child(ren) will remain with the parent in accordance with the regular schedule

Holidays	Even Years	Odd Years	Every Year	Begin/End Time
Mother’s Day	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Father’s day	__________	_________	__________	_________________
President’s Day	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Martin Luther King Day	________	_________	__________	_________________
Easter	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Passover	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Memorial Day Weekend	________	_________	__________	_________________
4th of July	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Labor Day Weekend	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Columbus Day Weekend	_______	_________	__________	_________________

Halloween	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Thanksgiving	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Hanukkah	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Yom Kippur	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Rosh Hashanah	__________	_________	__________	_________________
Child(ren)’s Birthdays	__________	_________	__________	_________________
_______________	__________	_________	__________	_________________
_______________	__________	_________	__________	_________________

This holiday schedule may affect the regular Time-Sharing Schedule. Parents may wish to specify one or more of the following options:

QWhen the parents are using an alternating weekend plan and the holiday schedule would result in one parent having the child(ren) for three weekends in a row, the alternating weekend pattern will restart so that neither parent will go without having the child(ren) for more than two weekends in a row.

QIf a parent has the child(ren) on a weekend with an unspecified holiday or non-school day, they shall have the child(ren) for the holiday or non-school day.

3.Winter Break (T Choose only one)

G The [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the child(ren) from the day and time school is dismissed until December _____ at ___ a.m./p. m in [ ]odd-numbered years [ ] even- numbered years [ ] every year. The other parent will have the children for the second one- half of the Winter Break. The parties shall alternative the arrangement each year.

G The [ ]Mother [ ]Father shall have the child(ren) for the entire Winter Break during [ ] odd-numbered years [ ] even-numbered years [ ] every year.

G Other: ______________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

4.Spring Break (T Choose only one)

G The parents shall follow the regular schedule.

G The parents shall alternative the entire Spring Break with the Mother having the child(ren) during the [ ]odd-numbered years [ ]even numbered years.

G The [ ]Father [ ]Mother shall have the child(ren) for the entire Spring Break every year.

G The Spring Break will be evenly divided. The first half of the spring Break will go to the parent whose regularly scheduled weekend falls on the first half and the second half going to the parent whose weekend falls during the second half.

GOther:______________________________________________________.

5.Summer Break (T Choose only one)

GThe parents shall follow the regular schedule through the summer.

GThe [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the entire Summer Break from __________ after school is out until _______________ before school starts.

GThe parents shall equally divide the Summer Break. During [ ] odd-numbered years [ ] even numbered years, the [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall have the children from ________

after school is out until ________. The other parent shall have the child(ren) for the

second one-half of the summer break. The parents shall alternative the first and second one-halves each year unless otherwise agreed. During the extended periods of time- sharing, the other parent shall have the child(ren) ______________________________.

GOther:______________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________.

6.Number of Overnights:

Based upon the time-sharing schedule, the Mother has a total of _____ overnights per year and the Father has a total of _____ overnights per year. Note: The two numbers must equal 365.

VII. TRANSPORTATION AND EXCHANGE OF CHILD(REN)

1.Transportation (T Choose only one)

G	The [ ] Mother [ ] Father shall provide all transportation.

GThe parent beginning their time-sharing shall provide transportation for the child(ren).

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

2.Exchange (T Choose only one)

Both parents shall have the child(ren) ready on time with sufficient clothing packed and ready at the agreed upon time of exchange. If a parent is more than ______ minutes late without contacting the other parent to make other arrangements, the parent with the child(ren) may proceed with other plans and activities.

GExchanges shall be at Mother’s and Father’s homes unless both parents agree to a different meeting place.

GExchanges shall occur at _______________________________________

____________________________________________________________ unless both parties agree in advance to a different meeting place.

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

3.Transportation Costs (T Choose only one)

GTransportation costs are included in the Child Support Worksheets and/or the Order for Child Support and should not be included here.

GThe Mother shall pay ______% and the Father shall pay ______ % of the transportation costs.

GOther: _____________________________________________________.

4.Foreign and Out-Of-State Travel (T Choose only one)

GEither parent may travel with the child(ren) during his/her time-sharing. The parent traveling with the child(ren) shall give the other parent at least ____ days written notice before traveling out of state unless there is an emergency, and shall provide the other parent with a detailed itinerary, including locations and telephone numbers where the child(ren) and parent can be reached at least ____ before traveling.

GEither may travel out of the country with the child(ren) during his/her time-sharing. At least ___ days prior to traveling, the parent shall provide detailed itinerary, including locations, and telephone numbers where the child(ren) and parent may be reached during the trip. Each parent agrees

to provide whatever documentation is necessary for the other parent to take the

child(ren) out of the county.

GIf a parents wishes travel out of the country with the children, he/she shall provide the following security for the return of the child ______________

___________________________________________________________.

GOther _____________________________________________________.

VIII.	SCHOOL DESIGNATION
	For school and school district purposes, the [ ] Mother [ ]Father’s address shall be designated.
IX.	DESIGNATION OF CUSTODIAN FOR OTHER LEGAL PURPOSES
	The child(ren) named in this Parenting Plan are scheduled to reside the majority of the time with the [ ]
	Mother [ ] Father. This parent is designated as the custodian of the child(ren) SOLELY for purposes of all
	other state and federal statutes which require a designation or determination of custody. This designation
	does not affect either parent’s rights and responsibilities under this parenting plan.

X.COMMUNICATION

1.Between Parents

All communications regarding the child(ren) shall be between the parents. The parents shall not use the child(ren) as messengers to convey information, ask questions, or set up schedule changes.

The parents shall communicate with each other by:

G in person

G by telephone

Gby letter

Gby e-mail

GOther:_____________________________________________________.

2.Between Parent and Child(ren)

Both parents shall keep contact information current. Telephone or other electronic communication shall not be monitored by or interrupted by the other parent. “Electronic communication” includes telephones, electronic mail or e-mail, webcams, video-conferencing equipment and software or other wired or wireless technologies or other means of communication to supplement face-to face contact.

The child(ren) may have [ ] telephone [ ] e-mail [ ] other electronic communication in the form of

___________________________________ with the other parent:

GAnytime

GEveryday during the hours of _______________ to _________________.

GOn the following days_________________________________________

during the hours of _____________________ to ___________________.

GOther:______________________________________________________.

3.Costs of Electronic Communication

The Mother shall pay _____% and the Father shall pay _____% of the additional costs incurred in order to

implement electronic communication with the child(ren).

XI.	CHILD CARE (T Choose only one)
	G	Each parent may select appropriate child care providers
	G	All child care providers must be agreed upon by both parents.
	G	Each parent must offer the other parent the opportunity to care for the child(ren) before using a

child care provider for any period exceeding _______ hours.

GOther ____________________________________________________________.

XII. CHANGES OR MODIFICATIONS OF THE PARENTING PLAN

This Parenting Plan may be modified or varied on a temporary basis when both parents agree in writing. When the parents do not agree, the Parenting Plan remains in effect.

Any substantial changes to the Parenting Plan must be sought through the filing of a supplemental petition for modification.

XIII. RELOCATION

Any relocation of the child(ren) is subject to and must be sought in compliance with s. 61.13001, Fla. Stat.

XIII. DISPUTES

Parents shall attempt to cooperatively resolve any disputes which may arise over the terms of the Parenting Plan. If such attempt fails (T Choose only one):

GThe parents shall use mediation or other dispute resolution methods before filing a court action.

GMediation or other dispute resolution methods will NOT be required prior to filing a court action.

XIV. OTHER PROVISIONS

_________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________.

SIGNATURE OF PARENTS

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this Plan and intend to be bound by it.

Dated: _____________________________ __________________________________

Signature of Father

Printed Name: _______________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: ______________________

Telephone Number: ___________________

Fax Number: ________________________

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF ____________________.

Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on ____________ by ________________________.

___________________________________

NOTARY PUBLIC or DEPUTY CLERK

___________________________________

[Print, type, or stamp commissioned name of notary or clerk]

__ Personally known

__ Produced identification. Type of identification produced _____________________________.

__________________________________

Signature of Mother

Printed Name: _______________________

Address: ____________________________

City, State, Zip: ______________________

Telephone Number: ___________________

Fax Number: ________________________

I certify that I have been open and honest in entering into this Parenting Plan. I am satisfied with this Plan and intend to be bound by it.

Dated: _____________________________

STATE OF FLORIDA

COUNTY OF ____________________.

Sworn to or affirmed and signed before me on ____________ by ________________________.

___________________________________

NOTARY PUBLIC or DEPUTY CLERK

___________________________________

[Print, type, or stamp commissioned name of notary or clerk]

__ Personally known

__ Produced identification. Type of identification produced _____________________________.

ORDER OF THE COURT

It is ordered and adjudged that the Parenting Plan set forth above is adopted and approved as an order of this court. ORDERED ON ___________________________.

__________________________________

CIRCUIT JUDGE

COPIES TO:

Father (or his Attorney)

Mother (or her Attorney)

Other

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Document Overview

Fact Name	Description
Usage Requirement	This form must be used in all Florida cases involving time-sharing with minor child(ren), irrespective of whether time-sharing is disputed.
Documentation and Filing	After being properly filled out and agreed upon, the Parenting Plan must be signed and witnessed, then filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the relevant county.
Minimum Contents	At a minimum, the Parenting Plan outlines daily tasks, time-sharing arrangements, health care and school-related responsibilities, and communication methods with the child(ren).
Best Interests of the Child	The primary consideration of the Parenting Plan is the child(ren)'s best interests, taking into account the parties' relationship, domestic violence history, and other relevant factors.
Governing Laws	This form is governed by Chapter 61, Florida Statutes, and relevant family law rules and procedures, ensuring consistency with Florida's legal framework for parenting and time-sharing.

Instructions on How to Fill Out Parenting Plan Examples Florida

Filling out the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form is an important step in defining how parenting responsibilities and time-sharing with minor children will be handled. This document is essential in cases where time-sharing needs to be structured, including when it is not disputed. Detailed and carefully considered planning helps ensure the children's best interests are prioritized and that both parents understand their rights, responsibilities, and expectations. The process might seem daunting at first, but by following these steps, you can ensure that your Parenting Plan is complete and ready to be filed with the court.

Start by reading the form's instructions carefully. This will give you a good overview of what information you need and how to fill it out correctly.
Choose the type of Parenting Plan you are submitting: a plan agreed upon by both parties, a proposed plan by one parent, or a plan ordered by the court. Mark the appropriate option on the form.
Fill in the information for both parents under 'I.PARENTS,' including names, addresses, telephone numbers, and email addresses.
Under 'II.CHILDREN,' list the name(s), date(s) of birth, and sex of each minor child the Parenting Plan will cover.
In the 'III.JURISDICTION' section, confirm that the United States is the country of habitual residence of the child(ren) and that the State of Florida is the appropriate forum for the parenting plan.
Choose between 'Shared Parental Responsibility' and 'Sole Parental Responsibility' under 'IV. PARENTAL RESPONSIBILITY AND DECISION MAKING.' Specify how major decisions (like education and health care) will be made.
Under 'V.INFORMATION SHARING,' ensure that both parents will have access to the children's medical and school records. Agree on how emergency decisions will be communicated.
Determine the 'VI. TIME SHARING SCHEDULE' by setting a regular schedule for weekdays, weekends, and outlining how time will be shared during holidays, winter break, spring break, and summer break. Specify any differing schedules for each child if applicable.
If there are any additional provisions or detailed information needed to address all relevant factors concerning the child(ren)'s upbringing that were not covered in the standard form, attach separate sheets detailing these provisions.
Both parties must sign and date the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk. Ensure to fill out all necessary information regarding the court location, case number, and division.
File the original completed and signed Parenting Plan form with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed, and keep a copy for your records.

Once the Parenting Plan is filed, follow the procedures outlined in the instructions for setting a hearing or trial, as needed. This step is crucial in cases where an agreed Parenting Plan was not filed by the parties, and the court needs to establish one. By providing all the required information and making thoughtful decisions, you contribute to a legal framework that supports the child(ren)'s best interests and the parental responsibilities effectively.

Listed Questions and Answers

When is the Parenting Plan form supposed to be used?

This form is required in any case involving time-sharing with a minor child or children, including when time-sharing isn't contested. If time-sharing is to be supervised, a different form called the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan should be used instead. Always complete this form using black ink, and if an agreement has been reached, it should be signed by both parties and witnessed by a notary or deputy clerk. The completed form must be filed with the clerk of the circuit court in the relevant county, and you should keep a copy for your records. If the parties do not submit an agreed Parenting Plan, the court will establish one.

Where can more information on the Parenting Plan be found?

Before you start, reading the “General Information for Self-Represented Litigants” is recommended. This document is available at the start of the forms packet and defines terms in bold underline. For further details, you should refer to Chapter 61 of the Florida Statutes and the instructions for your specific petition or answer. Additional resources can be found at your local library, law library, or through national and state family organizations.

What must be included in the Parenting Plan?

The Parenting Plan must detail how both parties will share and be responsible for day-to-day tasks in their child’s upbringing, the schedule of time-sharing specifying when the child will be with each parent, responsibility for health care, school matters, other activities, and the methods and technologies the parents will use to communicate with the child. The child's best interests are the primary concern. The Plan must consider all circumstances including the relationship history between the parties, any instances of domestic violence, and other relevant factors. Although the standard form covers many issues, additional provisions relevant to the specific case should be addressed, giving special attention to each child's age and needs.

What happens if an agreed Parenting Plan is not submitted?

If the parties involved do not file an agreed Parenting Plan, the court will establish one for them. This reinforces the importance of coming to an agreement if possible, to ensure the Plan aligns with the parents' wishes and is tailored to the child’s specific needs. It's crucial to provide a detailed, comprehensive Plan that the court can approve to guide time-sharing and parental responsibilities.

Can the Parenting Plan be modified after it has been established?

Yes, the Parenting Plan can be modified after it is established. To do so, one must demonstrate a substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the Plan was ordered. The process usually involves filing a modification petition and providing the court with evidence supporting the need for modification. The primary consideration for any modification will always be the best interests of the child or children involved.

Common mistakes

Failing to provide detailed information on how daily tasks associated with the upbringing of the child(‍ren) will be shared and managed. Many people overlook the importance of specifying routine responsibilities and how decisions regarding the child(‍ren)’s daily care, including transportation to school and extracurricular activities, will be divided.
Not specifying the time-sharing schedule clearly. A common mistake is being too vague about the exact times and dates each parent spends with the child(‍ren). This lack of clarity can lead to misunderstandings and conflicts. It's essential to outline specific days, times, and conditions for regular visits, holidays, and vacations to prevent future disputes.
Omitting details on decision-making authority. Some individuals neglect to clearly designate which parent has responsibility for making major decisions concerning the child(‍ren)’s healthcare, education, and other significant matters. Defining whether these responsibilities are shared or assigned to one parent can help avoid conflicts.
Insufficient communication plans. The form requires specifying how parents will communicate with the child(‍ren) and each other about the child(‍ren)’s well-being. A common mistake is not providing detailed methods and technologies for communication, which is crucial, especially for parents living apart.
Not considering the child(‍ren)’s needs based on age and developmental stage. The needs of a toddler are vastly different from those of a teenager. Some people fail to adapt the parenting plan to reflect these evolving needs, which can result in a plan that doesn't serve the best interests of the child(‍ren) over time.

When filling out the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form, it's crucial to address these areas thoughtfully and comprehensively. Doing so will not only fulfill the legal requirements but also foster a cooperative and nurturing environment for the child(‍ren) to thrive.

Documents used along the form

When dealing with family law matters, particularly those involving the well-being and care of minor children, the Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.9-- Parenting Plan is a critical document used to outline how parents will share responsibilities. However, this form often does not stand alone in the legal process. Several other forms and documents are commonly used alongside it to ensure a comprehensive approach to resolving parenting issues. Here is a look at some of these additional forms and documents.

Financial Affidavit (Family Law Form 12.902(b) or 12.902(c)): This document is required to provide a complete financial picture of both parties involved. It outlines income, expenses, assets, and liabilities, helping to determine child support and alimony.
Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit (Form 12.902(d)): This affidavit is essential in custody cases that involve more than one state. It provides information about the child's residence history, aiding in determining the state with jurisdiction over the custody matters.
Child Support Guidelines Worksheet (Form 12.902(e)): To calculate child support accurately according to Florida's guidelines, this worksheet uses the parents' financial information. It is critical to ensure fair and sufficient support for the child's needs.
Notice of Social Security Number (Form 12.902(j)): This document provides the court and the other party with the social security numbers of the parties and the children involved, which is required for all cases involving child support.
Marital Settlement Agreement for Dissolution of Marriage with Dependent or Minor Child(ren) (Form 12.902(f)(1)): When spouses are able to reach an agreement on the terms of their divorce, including the details of the Parenting Plan, this form outlines those agreements in detail, which can then be approved by the court.

Together, these documents work with the Parenting Plan to ensure that all aspects of the child's welfare and the parents' financial responsibilities are considered. Each form serves a specific purpose and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the family's situation, allowing the court to make the most informed decisions possible. Remember, ensuring the completeness and accuracy of these documents is essential to effectively manage the legal process surrounding custody and child support.

Similar forms

The Parenting Plan Examples Florida form is specifically designed to ensure that both parents play an active and equitable role in their child's life, emphasizing the child's welfare and needs. This form is closely related to several other documents used in family law, such as the Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan and Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit. Although similar in purpose, the nuances and specific focus of each form address different aspects of parenting and legal concerns regarding child custody and welfare.

The Supervised/Safety Focused Parenting Plan is another critical document, which shares similarities with the standard Parenting Plan form. Both documents prioritize the child's safety and well-being, detailing the responsibilities of each parent in raising and caring for the child. However, the Supervised/Safety Focused version is more specific to scenarios requiring supervised visitation. This could be due to various factors, such as past instances of domestic violence or concerns about the child's immediate safety. It details the conditions under which supervised visitation takes place, including the location, duration, and who may supervise these visits, ensuring the child's safety while maintaining parental contact.

Similarly, the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA) Affidavit complements the Parenting Plan by addressing jurisdictional issues in custody disputes, especially those spanning multiple states. Whereas the Parenting Plan outlines the daily and long-term arrangements for the child's upbringing, the UCCJEA affidavit is used to establish the child's home state, thus determining which state's court has jurisdiction over the custody case. It requires detailed information about the child's living arrangements for the past five years and any involvement in custody proceedings, ensuring that custody decisions are made in the appropriate jurisdiction and avoiding conflicts between states.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form, families are navigating the landscape of legal documentation to ensure the welfare and best interests of their children are paramount. With the gravity that these forms carry, it’s crucial to approach them with thoughtfulness and precision. Here are several key dos and don'ts to guide you through the process:

Do: Read through the instructions carefully. Understanding the purpose and requirements of the form can help ensure that all relevant sections are completed accurately.
Do: Use black ink if you are completing the form by hand. This makes your responses legible and ensures that the document can be copied clearly if necessary.
Do: Be as detailed as possible in describing how daily tasks associated with the upbringing of the child(ren) will be shared. Clarity in this section can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts later on.
Do: Include a comprehensive time-sharing schedule. Specifying the time the child(ren) will spend with each parent helps establish a routine that is in the child’s best interests and minimizes potential disputes.
Do: Ensure both parties sign the Parenting Plan and have their signatures witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk. This formalizes the agreement and gives it legal standing.
Do: File the original document with the clerk of the circuit court in the county where the petition was filed and keep a copy for your records. This step is critical for the enforceability of the Parenting Plan.
Do: Provide special consideration to the age and needs of each child, tailoring the Parenting Plan to suit those unique requirements.

Don't: Leave sections incomplete. Each section of the Parenting Plan plays a crucial role in detailing the agreed-upon arrangements for the child(ren)’s care.
Don't: Rush through the process. Taking the time to consider each decision’s long-term effects can help create a more effective and practical plan.
Don't: Forget to discuss and agree upon who will be responsible for health care, school-related matters, and other significant activities. These decisions are critical to the child(ren)'s well-being.
Don't: Ignore the guidelines on methods and technologies for communication with the child(ren). Establishing these parameters early on can facilitate smoother interactions and more consistent involvement.
Don't: Skip consulting additional resources or seeking legal advice if there are aspects of the form or your situation that are unclear. It’s important to have a clear understanding and agreement before finalizing the Parenting Plan.
Don't: Fail to consider the historical relationship between the parties and other relevant factors, such as domestic violence, which may influence the parenting arrangements.
Don't: Forget to update the Parenting Plan as necessary. Circumstances change, and the document should evolve to reflect the child(ren)’s current best interests.

By following these guidelines, parents can work towards creating a Parenting Plan that serves the best interests of their children and meets legal standards in Florida. Remember, this document lays the groundwork for the future care and upbringing of your child(ren), making it a crucial part of ensuring their well-being and stability.

Misconceptions

There are several common misconceptions regarding the Florida Parenting Plan form which can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. Clearing up these misconceptions is critical for families navigating through custody and time-sharing arrangements.

Misconception 1: The Parenting Plan is only required in contested cases. Many individuals mistakenly believe that a Parenting Plan form is only necessary when there are disputes about time-sharing. However, this form should be used in all cases involving time-sharing with minor children, regardless of whether the time-sharing is in dispute or not.
Misconception 2: The Parenting Plan form is lengthy and complicated. While comprehensive, the aim of the form is to address all aspects of parenting post-divorce or separation, focusing on the child’s welfare. It requires careful consideration but is structured to guide parents through the necessary components of a co-parenting arrangement.
Misconception 3: The standard Parenting Plan addresses all possible scenarios. Each family situation is unique and the standard form may not cover every circumstance or special need. The plan should be customized to address the specific needs of the child and the family’s unique circumstances, which might include provisions for special needs children, long-distance parenting arrangements, or other factors.
Misconception 4: Once filed, the Parenting Plan cannot be changed. It is possible to modify the Parenting Plan if there is a significant change in circumstances affecting the child’s welfare or if both parties agree to the modifications. The court’s primary interest is the best interests of the child, allowing for adjustments as necessary.
Misconception 5: Non-lawyers cannot assist with the Parenting Plan form. While it is true that one should be cautious when receiving help from non-lawyers, they can assist in filling out the form as long as they provide the required disclosure form, clearly explain their non-lawyer status, and do not give legal advice. Their assistance should be limited to helping with the paperwork, ensuring all parties understand this limitation.

Understanding these misconceptions is crucial for parents to navigate the legal requirements effectively and to ensure that the Parenting Plan serves the best interests of their children.

Key takeaways

The primary objective of the Parenting Plan Examples Florida form is to outline how parents will share and be responsible for the daily tasks related to the upbringing of their children, including time-sharing schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and methods of communication. Understanding and accurately completing this form is essential for ensuring the welfare and stability of children involved in family law cases in Florida. Here are the key takeaways:

The Parenting Plan must be used in all cases involving time-sharing with minor children, regardless of whether time-sharing is disputed, ensuring that the children's needs and interests are prioritized and clearly outlined.
It requires both parties to detail how they will manage daily tasks, time-sharing schedules, decision-making on health care and education, and communication methods about the child(ren), fostering an environment where the child's well-being is the central focus.
For the Parenting Plan to be legally binding, it must be signed by both parties and witnessed by a notary public or deputy clerk, solidifying the agreement in a way that is recognized by the court system.
The form encourages specification of holidays, school breaks, and special occasions within the time-sharing schedule, ensuring that both parents are provided with the opportunity to be involved in significant moments of their child(ren)'s lives.
In situations where an agreed Parenting Plan is not filed, the court will establish the Plan, underscoring the importance of parents working together to develop a mutually agreeable schedule focused on the best interests of the child(ren).

It’s crucial for parents to provide a detailed and comprehensive Parenting Plan that takes into account the unique needs of their child(ren), promoting a collaborative approach towards raising and supporting their child(ren) post-separation or divorce. Additionally, seeking consultation, whether through legal advice or reviewing materials provided by family law organizations, can assist in developing a Plan that best serves the child(ren)'s interests.

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