What If One Parent Refuses To Follow A Fort Lauderdale Parenting Plan?
Parenting after divorce works best when both parents honor the plan they agreed to or that the court ordered. But when one parent refuses to follow the parenting plan, things can quickly spiral. Missed visits, late drop-offs, or constant interference with communication can hurt both the child and the parent-child relationship.
If you’re a Broward County parent dealing with repeated violations, you do have legal options. Our experienced Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney explains how Florida courts handle these situations and what you can do to protect your rights.
How Florida Courts Handle Parenting Plan Violations
A Fort Lauderdale parenting plan is more than a suggestion. It’s a legally enforceable court order. Under Section 61.13 of the Florida Statutes, once parents agree on a parenting plan, they are required to follow the terms.
If one parent repeatedly violates it, the other can ask the court to step in. Common types of parenting plan violations in Broward County include:
- Missed or denied time-sharing, when one parent repeatedly refuses to return the child on time or cancels visits.
- Unauthorized travel or relocation, when they take the child out of the area (or out of state) without permission.
- Interference with communication, such as blocking calls, texts, or video chats that are part of the plan.
- Parental alienation, which involves badmouthing the other parent and trying to turn the child against them.
- Failure to share information, such as medical information or details about school and extracurricular activities.
Judges take these issues seriously. If you prove a violation, the court can order make-up parenting time, modify the plan, impose fines, or even require parenting classes. In severe cases, repeated interference can affect custody itself.
What to Do When The Other Parent Refuses To Comply With a Broward County Parenting Plan
Adhering to a Florida parenting plan is not an option. If the other parent repeatedly violates it, you have the right to take legal action. Here’s what to do:
- Document all missed visits and any texts, emails, or other communications showing they are not following the plan.
- Avoid emotional confrontations, which can reflect poorly on you in court.
- Keep communications with the other parent civil and, preferably, in writing.
- File a Motion for Contempt or Enforcement.
- Request additional parenting time, if needed, to restore balance.
- If violations persist, you can request modifications to your parenting plan and any final child custody orders.
- Get legal help: Having an experienced Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney on your side helps in gathering and presenting evidence, communicating effectively, and avoiding escalation.
Florida courts aim to protect the child’s best interests, not punish parents, but consistent defiance rarely goes unchecked.
Contact Our Experienced Fort Lauderdale Child Custody Attorney Today
When one parent refuses to follow a Fort Lauderdale parenting plan, it infringes on your parental rights. At The Law Office of Sandra Bonfiglio, we hold them accountable and help you take enforcement efforts. Give our office a call or contact us online. Request a confidential consultation today with our experienced Fort Lauderdale child custody attorney.
Sources:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html
flcourts.gov/Services/Family-Courts/domestic-relations-court-resources/family-law-forms/Parenting-Plan-12.995-Forms-A-C/Parenting-Plan
