Attorney at Law
Creating a visitation schedule after divorce helps ensure both parents stay involved in their child’s life while maintaining stability and fairness. In Florida, visitation, known legally as “time-sharing,” is part of a parenting plan that both parents must follow once the divorce is finalized. This guide explains how time-sharing works, what factors the court considers, and how parents can build a schedule that supports consistency and cooperation.
What Is a Visitation or Time-Sharing Schedule in Florida?
A time-sharing schedule outlines when a child will spend time with each parent, including regular weekly visits, holidays, school breaks, and vacations. It is a central part of the parenting plan required under Florida law.
The schedule can be developed by the parents together or decided by the court if they cannot agree. A good schedule provides:
- Predictability for the child’s daily routine
- Flexibility to accommodate changing needs
- Clarity to avoid future disputes
Legal Requirements for Time-Sharing Agreements
Florida law (Florida Statutes §61.13) requires every parenting plan to include a specific time-sharing schedule. The plan must be approved by the court, which will evaluate whether it serves the best interests of the child.
Key legal points include:
- Both parents are presumed capable of sharing parental responsibility unless evidence shows otherwise.
- The court considers factors such as each parent’s involvement, stability, and willingness to foster a positive relationship with the other parent.
- The plan must clearly define responsibilities for school, medical care, and daily decisions.
If the parents cannot reach an agreement, the court will impose a schedule after reviewing testimony, evidence, and recommendations from professionals involved in the case.
How to Create a Fair and Functional Schedule
When building your own visitation plan, start with open communication and a focus on your child’s needs. Consider:
- The child’s age and school schedule – Younger children may need shorter, more frequent visits, while older children may handle longer stays.
- Work and commute times – Realistic scheduling prevents missed exchanges and reduces conflict.
- Holidays and special occasions – Alternate major holidays or establish a rotation that keeps things balanced.
- Consistency – Children adjust better when routines are predictable.
- Transportation and logistics – Plan who handles drop-offs, pick-ups, and travel costs.
Parents can use online parenting tools or mediation services to finalize a plan that works for everyone before submitting it to the court.
What If Parents Disagree on Visitation?
If discussions break down, mediation is usually the next step. Florida courts often require parents to attempt mediation before scheduling a custody hearing.
During mediation:
- A neutral mediator helps parents discuss concerns and find compromises.
- The resulting agreement can be submitted to the court for approval.
- If no agreement is reached, the judge will make a final determination based on the child’s best interests.
Common reasons for disputes include relocation, new work schedules, or differing parenting styles. In those cases, having an attorney experienced in Florida custody law can help ensure your rights and your child’s needs are protected.
Modifying a Time-Sharing Schedule
Life changes, and so can parenting arrangements. Florida law allows parents to request a modification of their time-sharing plan if there has been a substantial and material change in circumstances, such as relocation, remarriage, or changes in a parent’s availability.
To modify an existing plan:
- File a petition with the court.
- Show that the change benefits the child.
- Attend a hearing if the other parent objects.
The court will only approve modifications that clearly serve the child’s best interests.
Keeping Communication Positive and Consistent
Even the best-designed schedule can fail if parents struggle to communicate. A few strategies can help:
- Use shared calendars or parenting apps to avoid misunderstandings.
- Keep messages child-focused and factual.
- Address conflicts early before they escalate.
- Be flexible when emergencies arise.
Co-parenting works best when both parents remain respectful and cooperative, even after a difficult divorce.
Building Stability for Your Child After Divorce
Establishing a clear, fair visitation schedule is one of the best ways to give your child stability and reassurance after a divorce. It sets expectations, reduces stress, and helps both parents stay engaged in their child’s life.
If you need help creating or modifying a parenting plan, Tupper Law can guide you through every step of the process. Our firm helps Florida parents build time-sharing agreements that protect both their rights and their children’s future.
Contact Tupper Law today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward a balanced parenting plan that works for your family.