Parenting time guidelines are a set of rules and recommendations that help divorced or separated parents determine how much time their children will spend with each of them. These guidelines can be confusing, and it can be challenging for parents to agree on a plan that works for everyone. In this post, we will discuss what factors affect the decision-making process, how parents can come to an agreement, and how an attorney can help.

1. What factors affect decision-making?

Several factors can influence a parenting time agreement, including the age and developmental needs of the child, the parents' work schedules, and the child's school schedule. Other things to consider include the parents' geographic location, the child's extracurricular activities, and any special needs the child may have. When creating a parenting time plan, parents must take all these factors into consideration and put their child's best interests first.

2. How do parents come to an agreement?

Parents can agree on a parenting time plan through mediation, a collaborative process, or by going to court. Mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third party helps the parents create a plan that works for everyone. This can save parents a lot of time and money, as they don't have to go to court. In a collaborative process, each parent hires an attorney who works together to create a plan that everyone agrees on. Lastly, if parents can't agree, they may have to go to court where a judge will decide the parenting plan.

3. What are the parenting time guidelines in Florida?

In Florida, parenting time guidelines state that children should have frequent and continuing contact with both parents, and the parenting plan must be in the best interest of the child. Parents must create a plan based on the child's developmental needs, and the plan should be as specific as possible. For example, the plan should detail where the child will be on weekends, holidays, and school vacations, and include information on how the parents will share decision-making responsibilities.

4. How can an attorney help?

An attorney can assist parents in developing a parenting time plan that works for everyone involved. They can offer advice and guidance on what factors to consider and help parents negotiate a plan that meets the child's needs and the parents' schedules. An attorney can also represent a parent's interests in court and help parents navigate the legal process.

Creating a parenting time plan can be a challenging and emotional process for parents, but it's essential to put the child's best interests first. By considering the child's needs, work schedules, and other relevant factors, parents can come to a mutual agreement that works for everyone involved. An attorney can help parents navigate the legal process and negotiate a plan that meets everyone's needs. At the end of the day, it's important to remember that parenting time guidelines are in place to ensure that children have a stable and healthy relationship with both parents.