Child Visitation in Florida

by Lottie C.
(Macclenny, Florida, Baker County)

If visitation has never been established and the parents have never been to court before, what is the first step the non-custodial parent should take to be able to get visitation rights?

Answer to Florida Child Visitation Question

Dear Lottie,

The first step to establish visitation for unmarried parents in Florida is to file a Petition to Determine Paternity and for Related Relief, Family Law Form 12.983(a). Either parent, custodial or non-custodial can file the form.

With this form you will be asking the court to establish paternity and a visitation or a Time Sharing Parenting Plan. This will establish your visitation rights as a non-custodial parent.

If child support has not yet been determined or established, this form will take care of that too. There are some accompanying forms that you must fill out as well. Take a look at our dedicated web-powered page for the Petition to Determine Paternity Form. You will find a lot of info and links to the supporting forms as well.

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Child Visitation & Custody Library
The most complete library of expert child custody publications on the internet. Website contains 100s of child custody forms & publications for mothers, fathers, and grandparents. Visit CustodyLibrary.com

Modifying Parenting Plans & Time Sharing Schedules

This 70+ page guide has complete step by step instructions for completing the Florida court approved forms for the Supplemental Petition to Modify Parenting Plan/Time Sharing Schedule & Other Relief. Available as an e-book download.

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