Planning for an upcoming spring break or summer vacation can be more challenging when you share parenting time with another parent. You can no longer simply pack up and take the kids whenever you want – first, you must follow the parenting time schedule. Second, if you are planning an out-of-state vacation, you must ensure that you check your parenting plan to see what you need to do ahead of time.
Out-of-State Vacations
While you might think it is no big deal to take your kids to Georgia to see their grandparents, the family court might disagree. Florida has no specific law preventing out-of-state travel by a co-parent, but a parenting plan might have requirements. Many parents include a provision that one parent must get permission from the other before traveling out of state. If you have such a provision and fail to follow it, you can be in trouble with the court.
International Travel
There are different issues that might arise with international travel. First, your parenting plan likely requires you to get permission before you travel. If you do not, you could be accused of international child abduction, which is a severe matter. Always carry written authority from the other parent with you when you travel.
Further, both parents must agree for their child to obtain a passport. If one parent refuses to consent to a passport, the other parent can try petitioning the court for authority. Speak to a Boca parenting lawyer about your options in this situation.
A Boca Parenting Attorney Can Help
At Juliana Gaita, P.A., we know that parenting issues can persist in court long after a divorce, especially when it comes to scheduling and travel. Never hesitate to discuss your rights and requirements for vacations with our firm. Contact us for more information today.
