At Mishali Law, we know that custody disputes are among the most sensitive matters in family law. Whether you are divorcing, separating, or establishing parental rights as an unmarried parent, decisions about custody and timesharing can shape your child’s future for years to come. Our team is here to guide you with compassion and skill.
With decades of experience in Florida family courts, we work to create solutions that prioritize your child’s well-being and safeguard your parental rights. Families across the state trust us when searching for the best child custody lawyer in Florida because we understand both the legal complexities and the emotional weight of these cases.
What Is Timesharing in Florida Family Law?
Florida uses the term timesharing instead of “custody.” Timesharing refers to how divorced or separated parents divide time with their children. The goal is not to label one parent as the “custodial” parent but to ensure both parents remain active in their child’s life.
A time-sharing plan in Florida is documented in a parenting plan approved by the court. This plan specifies when children are with each parent, how holidays are shared, and how important decisions are made. Florida law emphasizes fairness, consistency, and the child’s best interests in every arrangement.
What’s the Difference Between Legal and Physical Custody
Child custody in Florida has two components:
- Physical Timesharing: Where and with whom the child lives on weekdays, weekends, holidays, and school breaks.
- Legal Custody (Parental Responsibility): The right to make significant decisions regarding healthcare, education, and upbringing.
Florida generally favors shared parental responsibility, which means both parents participate in decision-making unless there are serious concerns such as abuse, neglect, or substance abuse.
Understanding these distinctions helps parents create a plan that provides stability for the child while also respecting each parent’s role.
How Florida Courts Determine Custody Arrangements
Every custody case in Florida is guided by the best interests of the child. Courts weigh multiple factors, including:
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment
- The child’s emotional, developmental, and educational needs
- The willingness of each parent to encourage a relationship with the other parent
- Any history of domestic violence, neglect, or substance abuse
The court’s goal is to ensure the child grows up in a safe, supportive environment, with meaningful contact with both parents whenever possible.
Florida’s Child Custody & Timesharing Laws
Florida’s custody laws were restructured in 2008 to encourage cooperation and reduce conflict. Terms like “custodial parent” were removed, and courts now focus on detailed parenting plans and timesharing Florida schedules.
Florida Timesharing Statute
The Florida timesharing statute (Florida Statute §61.13) lays out the framework courts use to establish custody arrangements. It emphasizes frequent and continuing contact with both parents and prevents bias toward either parent based on gender.
This statute is central to any case involving a parenting plan lawyer or family child custody lawyer in Florida.
Creating a Parenting Plan That Works for Your Family
A parenting plan is required in all child custody cases in Florida. Courts mandate these plans to ensure clarity and stability for the child.
Key Elements of a Florida Parenting Plan
- Timesharing Schedule: Where the child spends weekdays, weekends, holidays, and vacations
- Decision-Making Authority: Which parent makes choices about school, healthcare, and activities
- Communication: How parents and children communicate when apart
A carefully drafted plan reduces conflict and gives children a sense of security during transitions. An experienced parenting plan lawyer can help ensure your plan addresses both your child’s needs and your parental rights.
Modifying an Existing Custody or Timesharing Order
Life changes. A parent may relocate, change jobs, or experience shifts in health or finances. When circumstances materially change, parents can seek to modify a Florida timesharing plan. Courts require proof that the modification benefits the child and is not motivated by parental conflict.
Common reasons for modification include:
- A parent relocating a significant distance
- Changes in the child’s educational or medical needs
- Concerns about the child’s safety or welfare
- Enforcing Custody & Timesharing Agreements
When one parent fails to follow a court-ordered time-sharing parenting plan Florida, the other parent can take legal action. Courts can enforce orders, impose penalties, and even adjust the timesharing schedule to ensure compliance.
A skilled child custody family law attorney can guide you through enforcement actions, protecting both your rights and your child’s stability.
Relocation and Custody Disputes
Relocation is one of the most challenging custody issues. Florida law requires a parent who wishes to relocate with a child more than 50 miles away for more than 60 days to seek court approval.
The court considers:
- The reason for relocation
- The impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent
- The availability of alternative timesharing arrangements
Relocation disputes require careful legal strategy, and having a lawyer for child custody by your side is critical.
The Long-Term Impact of Custody Decisions
Child custody rulings have effects that extend far beyond the initial case and can have a lasting impact on the entire family. They influence:
- The child’s day-to-day stability
- Parental involvement in education and health
- Long-term financial responsibilities
This is why choosing the best child custody lawyer in Florida matters. Every detail in your parenting plan can shape your child’s growth and your role in their life.
How Our Boca Raton Custody & Timesharing Lawyer Can Help
At Mishali Law, we provide more than legal representation, we provide reassurance during a difficult time. Whether drafting an initial time sharing plan in Florida, modifying an order, or enforcing your parental rights, we are here to advocate for you.
Our approach is tailored to each family’s unique circumstances. We combine courtroom skill with compassionate guidance, helping clients move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custody & Timesharing in Florida
Can a child choose which parent to live with?
A child’s preference may be considered but is never the sole factor. Courts prioritize overall well-being.
What happens if a parent violates a timesharing agreement?
The other parent can file a motion to enforce. Courts may impose penalties or change the schedule.
Can custody or timesharing be modified if a parent relocates?
Yes, but modification requires court approval. The court will evaluate whether the change is in the child’s best interests.
How is decision-making authority shared?
Florida generally requires shared parental responsibility unless one parent poses a risk to the child.
Protect Your Parental Rights – Contact Mishali Law Today
If you are facing custody or timesharing challenges, you deserve guidance from an experienced child custody lawyer Florida parents trust. At Mishali Law., we fight to protect your rights and create plans that work for your family.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and speak with a dedicated family child custody lawyer in Boca Raton.
