How does the Florida Court fashion a time-sharing plan?
If parents are unable or unwilling to agree to time-sharing plan in mediation, the Court will dictate how 
much time each parent spends with the children. The Court must consider the best interests of the child(ren) when determining the time-sharing schedule.
The factors considered by the Court can be found in Florida Statute 61.13(3)(a-t). Knowledge of these factors is very helpful when preparing to create a parenting plan.
Oftentimes, during an intact relationship, parents will fall into “traditional” roles when parenting.
When parents divorce, it is important to understand that you both will need to take on additional parenting responsibilities.
Read about the Importance of Time-sharing
For example, 61.13(3)(j) states: The demonstrated knowledge, capacity, and disposition of each parent to be informed of the circumstances of the minor child, including, but not limited to, the child’s friends, teachers, medical care providers, daily activities, and favorite things.
If a parent’s previous role was the sole or main economic provider, that parent may not have immediate knowledge about the children’s teachers, pediatricians, or best friends.
When you begin the divorce process, you should familiarize yourself with these aspects of your children’s lives. Email their teachers, introduce yourself, volunteer in their classroom or as a coach for their team. It is important to be involved and to understand their schedule.
It may seem as though this would be viewed as a “Johnny come lately” move, however if it can be shown that during the marriage, each parent fulfilled specific roles and since the separation you have stepped up and assumed your new role. The judge, and maybe even your spouse, are likely to consider this a positive change when considering your parenting plan.
Be sure to print a copy of the 61.13(3) factors to discuss with your attorney when you are ready to create a parenting plan.
If you have any questions about Florida time-sharing plans contact Men’s Rights Attorney at 239-829-0166 today, we’re here to help you.