Parenting

Promoting Parenting Relationships

Raising children is the primary responsibility of parents. The State of Florida no longer uses the language “Custody” or “Primary responsibility.” Parents share time with their children and share certain parenting responsibilities. The term “Shared parenting” or “Shared parental responsibility,” is a court-ordered relationship pursuant to Florida Statute.

Pursuant to shared parenting, both parents retain full rights and responsibility for parenting their children. They must confer with each other in making any major decisions that affect the wellbeing of their children. Shared parenting responsibilities include day-to-day parenting tasks and decisions, as well as responsibility for larger decisions. Rarely is sole parental responsibility in order. Sole parental responsibility gives one parent the responsibility for making decisions for the child regarding education, medical, religion, and day-to-day decisions.

Also important to understand is the term “Co-parenting.” Co-parenting describes a parenting relationship in which two parents are no longer living together but still share responsibility for the raising of their children. Co-parenting requires that both parents put aside any differences or conflicts they may have and put the children first. Healthy co-parenting requires ongoing communication, mutual responsibility, and problem-solving. Effective co-parenting helps mitigate the social and emotional consequences of divorce or separation. It provides a safe and sustainable environment for the children, and models good conflict resolution skills for them.

To assist parents in understanding their parenting responsibilities and timesharing schedule, a Parenting Plan is created. A Parenting Plan outlines all aspects of raising your children from regular timesharing and holiday timesharing, to extra-curricular activities, schooling, transportation, travel, and medical issues.

The Aikin Family Law Group approach

At The Aikin Family Law Group, we help you navigate through co-parenting issues and shared parenting concerns to create a Parenting Plan that you feel confident will support the best interests of your children. Many parents are able to agree on the Parenting Plan that is right for their family. However, even if you are not able to agree with the other parent, we can help.

To learn more about promoting parenting relationships, please call us at 407-644-4040 or contact us to schedule a consultation.