Florida has a new custody law making its way through legislature

A new custody law is currently making its way through legislature and potentially will substantially change the way time-sharing is structured.  Florida’s Senate approved the new time-sharing bill 668 on March 8, 2016.  If this bill is eventually passed, it would require courts that are establishing an initial parenting plan to start with equal time with the child for each parent.  In essence, equal custody/joint custody as many of you understand it to be.  Deviation from this 50/50 requirement can be done only if factors outlined in section 3 of Florida Statue 61.13 can be established and also shown to be in the best interests of the child.  Further, the court is required to make a written finding of fact if an unequal time-sharing scheduled is warranted.  If the bill is passed, it will take effect on October 1, 2016.