Five Warning Signs In Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Arrangements
Florida law aims to protect the best interests of children in cases where parents divorce or separate by encouraging child time-sharing arrangements. However, problems with implementing these arrangements are unfortunately common.
Be able to be alert for clues that your parenting plan is headed toward trouble. Our Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer explains five common warning signs and how to protect yourself and your child.
Common Signs of Problems In Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Cases
Under the Florida Statutes, the best interests of children are a top priority in cases where the parents get divorced or are unmarried or separated. Child time-sharing encourages both parties to be actively involved with their child. Unless there are compelling reasons to prevent it, such as allegations of abuse or neglect, the Broward County Family Court encourages parenting plans that dictate each party’s rights and responsibilities.
Parenting plans outline how the child’s time gets divided between the parents, rights in decision-making, and how communications happen. Fort Lauderdale parenting plans are generally structured to avoid conflict, but problems can still arise once implemented. The following are five common warning signs:
- Hard feelings between parents: This can impact communication between the parents and the ability to cooperate, often leading to other problems.
- Failing to adhere to the parenting plan: Being flexible helps with Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing, but canceling visits, returning the child late, or otherwise violating terms is a serious sign of trouble.
- Unstable or unsafe environments: Notify our Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer immediately if you feel the other parent is putting your child at risk in any way.
- Interference with decision-making authority: One parent may disregard the other’s legal authority in making decisions that impact the child’s health, education, or extracurricular activities.
- Parental alienation: This is when the other parent actively tries to turn the child against the other parent, often by blaming them for the break-up or other problems.
Protecting Your Rights and Your Child In A Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan
Once a Florida parenting plan is in place, both parties must follow it. However, there are circumstances in which one parent may request modifications, such as if the other parent is putting the child at risk.
If you notice any of the above or other warning signs, be proactive in protecting yourself. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale child time-sharing lawyer recommends these tips:
- Keep detailed records of missed visits, communication problems, and other troubling behavior;
- Use email, text, or co-parenting apps to communicate with the other parent, which provides further documentation;
- Get legal guidance on your rights in requesting parenting plan modifications or other legal actions;
- Notify authorities immediately if there are legitimate reasons to believe your child is at risk.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Time-Sharing Lawyer Today
If you’re facing challenges with child time-sharing arrangements, act quickly to protect your rights and your child’s best interests. As an experienced Fort Lauderdale divorce lawyer, Vanessa L. Prieto can take the legal actions needed to put a stop to potential problems. Contact us today to request a consultation.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
