2025 Florida Summer-Vacation Playbook for Co-Parents
(Updated for the latest statute tweaks and court forms)
School’s almost out, and parents across South Florida are already juggling flight alerts, camp dates, and sunscreen supplies. Before you hit “book,” make sure your parenting plan meets every new Florida requirement—otherwise, a dream trip can turn into a contempt hearing.
1. The Cassie Carli Safe-Exchange Rule—Now Mandatory
As of July 1 2024, every court-approved parenting plan must name a “neutral safe-exchange” site (purple-light sheriff’s lot with 24/7 cameras) or a supervised-visitation center whenever conflict or safety is an issue. Judges have no wiggle room here. Florida Senate
HLA Tip: Add the address to your itinerary before reserving the condo. A last-minute hand-off at the airport curb could put you in violation.
2. 50/50 Time-Sharing Is the Default—But Facts Still Win
Florida law now starts with a rebuttable presumption that equal time-sharing is best for kids. Recent appellate opinions confirm courts will tilt the scale if, for example, one parent’s summer work travel leaves the child with nonstop sitters, or one home lacks proper supervision. Florida Senate
Make it persuasive: Use concrete facts—camp schedules, childcare costs, living arrangements—to explain why a different split serves your child’s interests. Boilerplate won’t cut it.
3. Five Clauses Your 2025 Summer Addendum Should Include
| Section | What to Spell Out | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Extended Break Schedule | Choose one: follow the school-year rotation, alternate whole summers, or split each summer 50/50. |
Prevents frantic last-minute bargaining. Statute requires “specific times, including overnights and holidays.”
|
| Travel Windows & Notice |
• In-state: dates, cities, overnights.
|
Form 12.995(a) tells judges to expect these details, especially with 2025’s flight-delay chaos. Florida Courts |
| Safe-Exchange Location | Address of neutral lot or supervised-visitation center, plus a weather-emergency backup. |
Satisfies the Cassie Carli law, shields you from contempt if the primary site floods. Florida Senate
|
| Virtual Contact | Daily FaceTime/WhatsApp window while traveling. |
Courts weigh each parent’s effort to keep the other parent connected. Florida Legislature
|
| Right of First Refusal (opt.) | Minimum hours that trigger it (often 6–12) and how you’ll give notice (text/email). | Prevents “surprise sitter” disputes during camp weeks. Built right into Form 12.995(a). Florida Courts |
4. The 50-Mile / 60-Day Relocation Rule
Summer travel doesn’t count as “relocation,” but any move over 50 miles for 60+ days still needs the other parent’s written OK or a court order. Courts also look hard at back-to-back trips that wipe out local sports or tutoring. Florida Senate
5. Title IV-D Administrative Plans—A Ready-Made Template
If child support is handled administratively, you’ll receive a Standard Parenting Time Plan (every-other-weekend plus set holiday/summer blocks). Mirror that language in your court order to avoid conflicting schedules. Florida Legislature
6. Quick Peace-Keeping Hacks
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Circle May 31 on the calendar. Judges loathe “emergency” filings the week of July 4.
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Share the itinerary—plus receipts. Email hotel addresses, flight numbers, and emergency contacts 48 hours before take-off.
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Write in a hurricane clause. June 1 = hurricane season. Build a swap-week buffer.
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Stay business-like. Your tone in emails can become Exhibit A at the next modification hearing.
Why South-Florida Families Trust Hoffman, Larin & Agnetti
For 40 years, our family law team has drafted parenting plans that withstand scrutiny and evolve with your children. From negotiating neutral exchange sites to rushing emergency travel orders, we handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on making memories.
“They did exactly what was needed … with the outcome we wanted.” — Yenisbel H., 2022 client
Ready for a Stress-Free Summer?
Call 305-653-5555, text 305-653-1515, or email [email protected]for a complimentary strategy session. Let’s build a plan that keeps your kids safe, happy, and thoroughly sunscreen-covered.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult our office.
