Child Visitation Change Form

by Matthieu from Palm Harbor, Florida, Pinellas County

I have a beautiful daughter that is 3 years old. Sometimes because of work I or her mother have to change my schedule on a one time basis. I have a court ordered child custody contract, but sometimes I or her mother can not make the time dated on the court ordered paperwork.

I can not trust the mother for anything. I'm looking if there is a form that I can keep in my car in case we need to change a visitation for one time, so she and I can sign this.

That way she can not say that she approved me not getting my daughter one night and then all the sudden she can't change her mind... I really need this ASAP! Thank you so much in advance...

Answer to Florida Child Visitation Question

Dear Matthieu,

It's all about communication and consideration.

Even though you have a child visitation schedule and time sharing plan the family law judges recognize that events and obligations arise in people's lives where they may need to deviate from that schedule occasionally.

If these one time changes in visitation seem to occur more and more often, then it may be necessary to modify that order.

If so, use, Florida Supreme Court approved Form 12.905(a) Supplemental Petition to Modify Parenting Plan/ Time Sharing Schedule and Other Relief.

Have a look at our web-powered instructions page for the Florida Petition to Modify Parenting Plan/ Time Sharing Schedule and Other Relief, Form 12.905(a).


However, if these are truly occasional changes in visitation, my suggestion is that you create a paper trail via email. Simply informing your ex that you have to work and will not be picking up your daughter, is not sufficient. Your ex has to agree to that change.

Your ex may have other plans and obligations of her own that she will have to cancel because you cannot do the scheduled child visitation. Sometimes you may have to forgo your own plans because of your child visitation obligation.

Even if those plans are work related, sometimes you may have to refuse the work hours, extra days or whatever, because you have your daughter with you.

Notice: We provide these answers to the general public and our website visitors as a means to further their online legal research. These answers are merely suggestions and should not be regarded as legal advice.

If you need legal advice, we recommend LagalMatch's free Lawyer Referral Service. Many lawyers offer free initial consultations. Get the legal advice you deserve.
Free Family Lawyer Referral

You Are Here → Home › Visitation FAQs › Child Visitation Change Form