On behalf of Sparkman Law Firm posted in Business Law on Monday, March 12th, 2018.
SB 590, a bill designed to make changes to time sharing and child custody laws in Florida, was signed into law last year by Florida Governor Rick Scott. It came into effect on January 1st of 2018 and can mean lots of changes on the horizon for families residing in the Sunshine State. Here’s what you should know about SB 590 and what it might mean for you.
Standard Parenting Time Plans
Before SB 590 became law, the Department of Revenue did not have the authority or ability to establish parenting plans for families. However, the bill now authorizes the Department to propose Standard Parenting Time Plans to families in Title IV-D child support cases. Additionally, the bill gives power to the Department to establish parenting plans that have been agreed upon by both parents and to waive court costs for families who are requesting Florida c courts to establish a parenting plan for them.
Parents are not required to abide by the Standard Parenting Time Plan offered by the Department of Revenue, however, it remains an option for families. If another parenting plan is deemed to be in the best interests for the child, there are no repercussions for families who choose to not use the plan provided by the Department.
What the Standard Plan Consists Of
The Standard Parenting Time Plan is the same across families and includes a set schedule for weekends and holidays. Parents making child support payments are offered the following:
- One evening every week from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
- Every other weekend
- Half of winter break each year
- Thanksgiving Break during even-numbered years
- Spring break during even-numbered years
- Two weeks each summer
Once the time sharing plan is established, be it the standard plan or a different plan, child support is then calculated based on the amount of time the child spends with the parent being requested to pay support.
Does SB 590 Give the Department of Revenue Authority to Enforce Parenting Time Plans?
Athough SB 590 does give the Department of Revenue some new liberties when it comes to establishing parenting time plans for Florida families, it does not give the Department authority to enforce the plan in any way.
Contacting an Attorney for Help
If you’re involved in a child support or time sharing matter, it’s important that you consult with an experienced family law attorney in Florida who can help advocate for you and your family. Contact Sparkman Law Firm today for a consultation at (813) 374-2000.
