Florida Visitation Lawyers

Call (800) 822-5170 to Consult with a Florida Visitation Attorney

The Virga Law Firm, P.A. is dedicated to serving families in various Florida communities, and we can address a wide variety of family legal matters, including visitation. Our goal is to serve you, protect your rights, and make sure your voice is heard during your divorce. We pay close attention to ensuring you can continue to be the best parent possible following divorce. This starts with working toward a detailed and realistic parenting arrangement.

What Is Visitation?

In Florida, visitation is often called time-sharing and involves deciding when, where, and how often you see your child after divorce. Usually, one parent becomes the custodial parent after divorce while the other receives visitation rights set by the court. When this happens, you and your former spouse must develop a visitation schedule and specify the dates, times, and places for visitation. If you cannot agree, the court determines the terms for you.

Florida law refers to visitation as "time-sharing," meaning both parents share the rights and responsibilities of raising their children. Each county in Florida, including Escambia and Orange, has unique procedures and court schedules, so having someone familiar with local practices can make a real difference in how an agreement is managed. A parenting plan created under Florida Statutes Section 61.13 must include all details regarding where and when children spend time with each parent. This plan should also address holidays, school breaks, and emergencies, giving everyone stability and predictability.

Call The Virga Law Firm, P.A. today at (800) 822-5170 or send us a message to tell us how our Florida visitation lawyers can serve you.

How Florida Courts Decide Visitation Arrangements

Florida courts decide visitation and time-sharing based on the best interests of the child. Judges weigh multiple factors, such as each parent's ability to maintain a strong bond with the child, the mental and physical health of both parents, the child’s educational needs, and the history of behavior in both households. The court may also consider the child’s preference if the child is mature enough to express a reasoned opinion.

When a parent raises concerns about a child's safety or living environment, the court may require supervised visitation to put the child's well-being first. Many local circuit courts across Florida, such as in Bay County and Orange County, follow statewide guidelines but may factor in region-specific circumstances. Consistency and reliability in visitation schedules are important for a child’s emotional health, so judges work to uphold those priorities.

Common Steps in the Visitation Process

Florida families working through visitation issues usually follow several steps. Most start with a parenting plan, which details time-sharing, holiday schedules, pickup and drop-off logistics, and how parents communicate about the child. If parents reach an agreement, courts typically approve the plan without a hearing.

If parents do not agree, the court often requires them to attend mediation to resolve disputes before going to trial. If mediation does not work, the case proceeds in front of a judge, who reviews all evidence before making a final ruling. In counties like Walton and Okaloosa, the court may schedule mediation quickly or ask for particular documents—knowing local rules can help families prepare. After the court issues its final order, both parents must follow the agreement exactly. If disagreements arise, families may request another mediation session or ask the court to review the situation.

What if I’m Unhappy with My Visitation Arrangement?

Sometimes these agreements are too vague for the parent who visits. If you believe your former spouse may misuse the flexibility of your current arrangement, you can often ask the court for a specific visitation schedule. This locks both parents into a set agreement and helps prevent lost time and unnecessary conflict for everyone.

You can ask the court to change a court-ordered visitation arrangement if you find it unreasonable or if it creates needless obstacles for you and the other parent. However, you must show facts that support your request and follow a series of important steps—which is why having a knowledgeable family lawyer matters.

Many parents in Florida file a formal modification request when they want to change an existing visitation agreement. To support your request, courts generally want to see substantial changes in circumstances—such as a new work schedule or a move to another city. Family courts focus on what is best for the child, taking into account school, home life, and relationships. If parents disagree and disputes continue, some courts require mediation before ruling on modifications. Whether you live in Panama City Beach or Orlando, understanding the local court’s process can make modification less stressful.

Speak with a Visitation Rights Attorney Today

Don’t leave the future of your relationship with your child up to the court or your former spouse. If you are going through a divorce and want to remain an active, involved parent, let us help. Our Florida visitation attorneys know family law and bring more than 100 years of combined experience serving families and parents across the state. We are ready to pursue what is best for you and your child during your divorce.

Call The Virga Law Firm, P.A. today at (800) 822-5170 or send us a message to tell us how our Florida visitation lawyers can serve you.

FAQs

How does supervised visitation work in Florida?

Supervised visitation involves a neutral third party who observes visits between a parent and child. Courts use supervised visitation when the child’s safety or well-being is a concern. This arrangement allows for parent-child contact while addressing any safety issues or concerns until a judge decides conditions have changed.

Can grandparents or other relatives request visitation in Florida?

In some situations, Florida law allows grandparents and other relatives to request visitation rights, typically when the parents are unfit or not available. Courts carefully review these requests, always focusing on what serves the child’s best interests.

How long does it take for the court to finalize a visitation schedule?

The process varies depending on how willing co-parents are to work together and on the local family court's schedule. In many Florida counties, uncontested cases finish in a few weeks, while more complicated or contested matters may take several months to resolve.