After a divorce, Florida’s timesharing plans are meant to give children a sense of stability. But life is not always predictable. What worked a year ago might not fit your family’s needs anymore, and sometimes it is necessary to update your parenting plan.

But to modify a parenting plan, Florida courts need to see that there has been a substantial and material change in circumstances, and that the proposed update is in the child’s best interests. Florida Statutes section 61.13 makes it clear that courts should put the child’s welfare first when evaluating these requests.

Below, we discuss some of the common reasons Florida courts approve changes to timesharing plans.

Relocation That Affects the Existing Schedule

Relocation is one of the most common reasons judges agree to change an existing timesharing plan. If one parent relocates, sticking to the old schedule may become impossible, especially if the new distance means long drives or disrupts your child’s school routine.

In these cases, courts are usually open to revising the plan so that it fits your family’s new situation. The goal is to accommodate the family’s new circumstances while preserving the child’s relationship with both parents. 

Significant Changes in a Parent’s Routine

If your work schedule suddenly changes, for example, if you start working nights, you’re on the road more often, or you experience a substantial change in working hours, you may no longer be able to follow the original timesharing plan. If you can’t provide consistent care because of these changes, the court may be open to adjusting the schedule so it works better for your child.

Concerns About a Child’s Safety and Well-Being 

Courts in Florida take safety concerns seriously. If there’s credible evidence of substance abuse, violence, neglect, criminal activities, or anything else that puts your child at risk, the court will consider changing the timesharing arrangement.

The goal is to keep children safe, emotionally, physically, and developmentally. When a child’s well-being is at risk, courts do not hesitate to step in.

Evolving Needs as Children Grow

Children grow, and their needs change. A parenting plan that worked when a child was young might not work when they are older. A child may also develop special medical needs, need extra help in school, or want to participate in activities that make the current schedule impractical. When your child’s circumstances change, the court may consider modifying the plan if it is in the child’s best interests.

Repeated Violations or Lack of Cooperation

If a parent ignores the court-ordered schedule, disrupts the other parent’s visitation, or fails to cooperate, the court might decide to modify the plan. Generally, Florida courts value stability and collaboration.

In summary, Florida courts are willing to modify timesharing plans if the situation truly calls for it. But, if you are seeking a modification, you must provide solid evidence showing a substantial change in circumstances and that the proposed modification is in your child’s best interests.

Contact Us for Legal Help

If your parenting plan is not working anymore, our experienced Florida family law attorneys at Tampa Bay Legal Center, P.A., can review your case, walk you through your options, and help you seek a modification that puts your child first. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.