Michele A. Lebron | October 31, 2025 | Child Custody
Timesharing arrangements in Florida are designed to give children stability and ensure both parents maintain meaningful relationships with them. However, life can change—new jobs, school schedules, or health concerns may make the original plan difficult to follow. If that happens, you may wonder whether you can adjust your timesharing arrangement without going back to court.
The short answer is yes, but only in certain circumstances. Florida law sets clear rules for modifying parenting plans, and while parents can make some informal adjustments, most significant changes require court approval. Continue reading to learn more about getting a custody modification in Florida.
Understanding Timesharing in Florida
In Florida, “timesharing” refers to the schedule that determines when each parent spends time with their child. This schedule is part of a larger document known as the parenting plan, which also outlines how major decisions—such as education, health care, and religion—are made.
Florida courts encourage parents to cooperate when possible. A well-structured parenting plan helps reduce conflict and provides children with consistency, even when parents live apart.
Informal Agreements Between Parents
If you and your co-parent get along well, you can agree to make temporary or minor adjustments to your timesharing schedule without going to court.
These agreements often occur when:
- A parent has to travel for work
- The child’s school or activity schedule changes
- One parent needs to swap weekends due to an emergency
In these cases, flexibility and cooperation can make life easier for everyone involved. However, it’s important to understand that informal agreements are not legally binding. If one parent later refuses to follow the modified schedule, the court will only enforce the original order.
Keeping written records of any temporary changes—such as texts or emails—can help prevent future misunderstandings.
When a Formal Modification Is Necessary
Under Florida law, major changes to your timesharing arrangement typically require a court order. You cannot permanently modify the terms of your parenting plan without judicial approval.
A court will only approve a modification if you can show:
- A substantial, material, and unanticipated change in circumstances since the last order
- That the proposed change is in the best interests of the child
Examples of substantial changes include:
- A parent relocating for a new job or military deployment
- Significant changes in a parent’s ability to care for the child (such as illness or financial hardship)
- Concerns about the child’s safety or well-being
- Major shifts in the child’s needs, such as medical or educational requirements
Proving these changes can be challenging, which is why many parents choose to work with a family law attorney to gather evidence and present a clear case.
The Process for Modifying Timesharing in Florida
If both parents agree to the modification, they can jointly submit a new parenting plan to the court. Judges usually approve agreed-upon changes quickly, provided the modification serves the child’s best interests.
If the parents do not agree, the parent seeking the change must file a petition to modify timesharing in family court.
The process involves:
- Filing a formal request with supporting documentation
- Serving notice to the other parent
- Attending mediation (if required by the court)
- Participating in a hearing where both sides present evidence
After reviewing the evidence, the judge will decide whether to modify the timesharing arrangement.
Why It’s Risky to Skip the Court Process
Even if both parents informally agree to change the timesharing schedule, failing to get court approval can lead to problems later.
For instance:
- One parent could suddenly demand enforcement of the original order
- The Department of Revenue could calculate child support based on outdated timesharing terms
- The new schedule could create confusion in legal or school records
To avoid these issues, it’s best to make sure any permanent change is properly approved and documented.
Tips for Successful Timesharing Modifications
When planning to adjust your timesharing arrangement, consider these best practices:
- Communicate clearly and respectfully with your co-parent
- Keep written records of all communications and schedule changes
- Stay focused on what benefits your child, not on disagreements with the other parent
- Avoid making changes that could be seen as withholding time from the other parent
Taking these steps can make the process smoother and increase your chances of gaining court approval.
Contact the Kissimmee Child Custody Lawyers at Lebron Law, PLLC for Help Today
Modifying a timesharing arrangement can be complicated, especially when parents disagree or the court’s approval is required. At Lebron Law, PLLC, our Kissimmee child custody attorneys can guide you through every step—from preparing the necessary paperwork to representing you in court.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help your family move forward.
For more information, contact our experienced Kissimmee family law & divorce attorneys at Lebron Law, PLLC to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Osceola County and its surrounding areas in Florida. Visit our office at:
Lebron Law, PLLC Kissimmee
15 S Orlando Ave, Kissimmee, FL 34741
(321) 800-5195
