As summer approaches and travel plans take shape, co-parents in Florida face a unique set of legal challenges. While the excitement of vacations fills the air, so too does the need for clear communication and legal preparation. At Sasieta Law, our Florida family law attorneys are here to help you navigate summer time sharing arrangements with confidence and peace of mind.

With a little proactive planning and legal insight, co-parents can create a positive summer experience for their children—free from disputes and confusion.

 

Review Your Parenting Plan Before You Travel

Before booking flights or making reservations, take a thorough look at your existing parenting plan or time sharing agreement. Many Florida parenting plans include specific provisions for vacation time, such as:

• Required advance notice

• Limits on out-of-state or international travel

• Alternating summer schedules

Understanding and honoring these provisions is essential to avoiding time sharing disputes. If your agreement is unclear or outdated, a Florida family law attorney at Sasieta Law can help you interpret or revise it as needed.

 

Always Provide Advance Notice

Even if your parenting plan doesn’t legally require it, providing written notice to your co-parent about your travel plans promotes transparency and prevents last-minute disagreements. A simple heads-up shows respect and creates a cooperative co-parenting environment.

 

Obtain Written Consent for Out-of-State or International Travel

Planning a trip outside of Florida or abroad? Most custody agreements require written consent from the other parent for out-of-state or international travel with the child. In some cases, a notarized travel consent form may be required—especially when flying internationally or dealing with passport issues.

This is a crucial step that not only prevents legal issues at airports or border crossings but also protects your parental rights. A family law attorney in Florida can help you prepare the correct legal documents.

 

Share Your Summer Travel Itinerary

Whether you're heading to Orlando or overseas, share your full itinerary with your co-parent. Include details such as:

• Destination and travel dates

• Accommodation info

• Emergency contacts

This level of transparency encourages trust and shows you're prioritizing your child’s safety and the other parent's peace of mind.

 

Document All Agreements in Writing

Even if you're modifying the schedule informally, always document any agreed-upon changes in writing—whether through email, text, or a co-parenting app. This written record helps prevent misunderstandings and provides legal protection if questions arise later.

 

Modify Your Parenting Plan If Needed

If summer travel creates frequent conflict or confusion, consider legally modifying your time sharing agreement to include more detailed vacation provisions. An updated plan can outline:

• How vacation time is divided

• How far in advance notice must be given

• How to handle travel disputes

At Sasieta Law, our Florida family law attorneys  can assist with filing a formal modification in family court to reduce stress and improve co-parenting long term.

 

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Put Your Children First This Summer

Effective co-parenting during summer vacations starts with communication, cooperation, and legal clarity. If you’re unsure about your time sharing rights or obligations, don’t wait until conflicts arise.