Timesharing and Visitation
What if I live at a distance from the other parent?
Getting timesharing (also known as visitation or custody) can be a complex and challenging process, especially if the parents live in different cities in Florida. In general, the courts prioritize the best interests of the child when making decisions regarding timesharing.
When parents live in different cities, it can create logistical challenges in terms of transportation and scheduling. This can make it difficult to establish a consistent and workable timesharing plan. It may be necessary to involve third parties, such as extended family members or professional mediators, to help facilitate communication and negotiation between the parents.
Additionally, the courts will consider a variety of factors when determining timesharing arrangements, including the child’s age, health, and educational needs, as well as each parent’s ability to provide a safe and stable environment. If there are concerns about the safety or wellbeing of the child, this can further complicate the process.
Overall, the process of obtaining timesharing when parents live in different cities in Florida can be challenging and time-consuming. It is important to work with an experienced family law attorney who can help guide you through the process and advocate for your rights and the best interests of your child.
It is not possible to predict exactly what a judge would order in a case where the parents live in different cities in Florida. However, judges will generally consider a variety of factors when making a decision about timesharing, including:
- The best interests of the child: The primary consideration for the court in making any decision about timesharing is the best interests of the child. This includes factors such as the child’s age, health, educational needs, and relationship with each parent.
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable and safe environment: The court will consider each parent’s ability to provide a stable and safe environment for the child, including the home environment, financial stability, and emotional support.
- The geographic distance between the parents: The distance between the parents’ homes will be a factor in determining timesharing arrangements. The court may consider factors such as the travel time required, the cost of transportation, and the feasibility of the parents sharing transportation responsibilities.
- The child’s relationship with each parent: The court will consider the quality and nature of the child’s relationship with each parent, including each parent’s involvement in the child’s life and their ability to support the child emotionally and physically.
- Any history of domestic violence or abuse: If there is a history of domestic violence or abuse, the court will take this into consideration when making a decision about timesharing arrangements.
Based on these and other factors, a judge may order a timesharing arrangement that allows the child to spend time with each parent on a regular basis, while taking into account the logistical challenges presented by the distance between the parents’ homes. This may involve a combination of weekday and weekend visitation, as well as arrangements for holidays and school breaks. In some cases, the court may order the use of virtual visitation technology to allow the child to maintain regular contact with the non-custodial parent. Ultimately, the decision will be based on what the court determines to be in the best interests of the child. Don’t undertake a custody matter without experienced counsel – Rhoden Law Group has decades of experience between the two attorneys. Focusing on you, your children, and best interests is what we do best. Call/text the office or use the contact us page to request a no cost consultation. 321.549.3162