Navigating Time Sharing When One Parent Moves to a Different Coast of Florida

Living in Florida offers a wide range of coastal lifestyles, from the vibrant city life of Miami and West Palm Beach on the Atlantic Coast to the relaxed, Gulf-side charm of Tampa, Sarasota, or Naples. While both coasts offer the sunshine and beach access families love, navigating time sharing becomes more complicated when co-parents live far apart, even within the same state.

If one parent decides to move from the Atlantic Coast to the Gulf Coast (or vice versa), this intrastate relocation can impact existing parenting plans. Have a conversation with a West Palm Beach family attorney if you’re navigating this type of move in Florida.

Moving Within the State Can Still Be a Big Deal

While a move within Florida may not involve crossing state lines, it can still introduce major changes, especially when it affects time sharing. Florida law considers any relocation of 50 miles or more from a child’s principal residence to be significant. If a parent wants to move beyond that range and the move will last more than 60 days (not including vacations), they must either get written agreement from the other parent or file a petition for relocation with the court.

The reality is that when both parents live nearby, it’s much easier to have equal or frequent time sharing. But when distance becomes a factor, such as one parent moving from West Palm Beach to a city like Sarasota, schedules must be adjusted to account for travel time, school schedules, and the child’s daily routines.

Some relocating parents choose to concentrate time with their kids during longer school breaks after a move, such as summer and winter holidays, while maintaining virtual contact throughout the week. Others may opt for fewer but longer visits throughout the month. Every family is different, and solutions should prioritize the child’s best interests while maintaining strong relationships with both parents.

Intrastate vs. Interstate Complexities

Though both are complex, interstate custody issues often involve questions of jurisdiction, and what state has the authority to enforce or modify parenting plans. Intrastate custody issues, while technically within the same legal system, can be equally complicated due to the significant distances between co-parents.

In Florida, courts must still review proposed relocations that impact a child’s well-being or significantly change the time sharing schedule. The relocating parent must show that the move is in the child’s best interests, and the other parent has the right to object.

Whether you’re the parent seeking to relocate or the one opposing the move, it’s essential to work with an experienced West Palm Beach family attorney. Legal guidance can help you understand your rights, file the proper motions, and advocate for a parenting plan that meets your family’s needs despite geographical distances.

Have you been thinking about moving to a different part of the state? From coast to coast, parenting challenges can arise. Talk to the legal team at Bruce S. Rosenwater & Associates. With the right legal support, you can create a time sharing arrangement that works. Schedule your confidential consultation today.