Planning Summer Vacations with Joint Custody

Summer vacations are a cherished tradition for families across Florida. At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, we understand that families with joint custody require thoughtful planning and cooperation to ensure that vacations are enjoyable, legally sound, and emotionally satisfying.

We draw from our considerable experience as a Florida child custody lawyer to offer practical guidance tailored to your unique situation. We aim to help you confidently create summer memories, knowing that you are acting in compliance with Florida family law.

Our team invites you to explore strategies, legal considerations, and real-life examples that will empower you every step of the way.

Understanding Joint Custody in Florida

What Florida Law Says

In Florida, joint custody means that both parents share the rights and responsibilities of decision-making for the child. This arrangement can be joint legal custody, in which both parents participate in major decisions, or joint physical custody, where the child spends substantial time with each parent.

According to Florida Statutes Chapter 61.13, the state encourages shared parental responsibility unless it is shown that such custody would be detrimental to the child. The law emphasizes that both parents must provide for the child’s welfare, including education, health care, religion, and extracurricular involvement. These legal mandates guide our recommendations at Griffin Family Law, PLLC, as your Florida family law attorney.

The 21–Day Notice Requirement

Florida law requires one parent to notify the other in writing at least 21 days before a change in the planned time-sharing schedule. This notice is essential when planning summer vacations because it ensures that both parents can adjust their schedules accordingly.

Failure to provide this notice may result in that parent forfeiting their right to parental time during the vacation period.

Why Summer Vacation Requires Extra Planning

Summer brings freedom from school and more opportunities to travel. However, conflicts could arise over dates, destinations, and logistics without proper planning. We often see disputes such as:

• Booking flights before confirming that the other parent has no objections.
• Failing to share itineraries, emergency contact details, or travel documents.
• Unexpected financial burdens woccur hen one parent is responsible for vacation planning without coordination.

As your custody lawyer in Florida, we help mitigate these issues by encouraging structured communication and legally compliant procedures that protect your rights and your child’s welfare.

Step‑by‑Step Guide to Planning a Vacation Under Joint Custody

Here is our comprehensive plan to help families coordinate summer vacations smoothly:

1. Review Your Parenting Plan

Start by revisiting your parenting plan, which outlines each parent’s time-sharing schedule and notice requirements. If your current plan lacks clarity on summer vacations, this may be an opportunity to update it through mediation or court approval.

2. Initiate Early Communication

We recommend starting discussions at least three to four months in advance, especially for complex or long-distance trips. This allows both parents time to request time off work, arrange childcare for non-traveling periods, and handle travel logistics.

3. Provide Written Notice of Time‑Sharing Change

Draft a letter or email detailing the following:

• Dates of travel (departure and return)
• Destination and accommodation details
• Mode of travel
• Emergency contact numbers
• Travel itinerary and schedules

Keep a copy of the notification for your records. This fulfills the 21-day notice requirement required by Florida law.

4. Coordinate Financial Responsibilities

Be clear about who pays for airfare, lodging, meals, and recreational activities. Small expenses like sunscreen, snacks, and other items should be discussed. We advocate for fairness and transparency to avoid resentment or misunderstandings.

5. Arrange Healthcare and Travel Documents

Passports may be necessary if the destination is outside Florida or the U.S.. If your child travels with only one parent, we suggest obtaining a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling parent to prevent complications during travel or at border control. Ensure your Florida family law attorney reviews both parents’ healthcare directives relating to vaccinations, medications, allergies, and immunization records.

6. Plan Contingencies

Life is unpredictable. Prepare for potential delays, illnesses, or emergencies. Having a backup plan helps both parents remain calm and adaptable. Discuss who will handle unexpected events, and collect temporary guardianship releases if needed.

7. Agree on Communication During Travel

Decide how often you will check in and what method you will use. Shared calendars, messaging apps, or group chats can be excellent tools. Comfortable communication reassures both parents that the child is safe and enjoying their time.

8. Confirm at Least 14 Days Before Departure

Touch base roughly two weeks before departure to confirm that bookings are intact and both parents understand their responsibilities. This gives you time to address any last-minute issues without undue stress.

9. Follow Through—During and After the Trip

On return, provide all promised details—receipts, stories, and photos—especially if the agreement specifies sharing the week’s events. This maintains trust with the co-parent.

Legal Considerations and Potential Pitfalls

Major vs. Minor Changes in Time‑Sharing

Not every trip requires written notification. Small day trips to nearby beaches or attractions do not require 21‑day written notice, but extended trips do. As your custody lawyer in Florida, we can help you determine whether your planned vacation qualifies as a significant change.

International Travel with Children

Traveling outside of Florida or the country requires additional attention. Beyond passports, an international trip may require notarized consent from the other parent to prevent immigration or customs challenges. The U.S. Department of State recommends a consent document signed by the non-traveling parent, notarized, and ideally translated into the destination country’s language.

Travel Restrictions Due to Pending Court Orders

If a protective order, restraining order, or pending modification request is in effect, international travel may require court approval. If the other parent is using travel as a negotiation tactic, we can file a motion to address travel restrictions.

Emergency Situations

Unexpected events—illness, weather cancellations, family emergencies—may require trips to change. Communicate promptly and in writing. Florida law does not prohibit reasonable changes for emergencies, but you must notify the other parent as soon as possible and propose alternate arrangements.

Sample Notice Template for Vacation

Below is a sample notice you may use:

Date: April 1, 2025

To: [Other Parent Name]

From: [Your Name]

Subject: Notice of Vacation Time-Sharing Change

Pursuant to Section 61.13(2)(c) of the Florida Statutes, I am providing you at least 21 days notice of the following change to our parenting plan for our child, [Child Name], born on [DOB]:

• Dates: June 15–June 22, 2025
• Destination: Orlando, FL (Universal Studios; hotel name)
• Travel details: Driving jointly on June 15 and returning on June 22
• Emergency contact: [Your phone number, co-traveler phone, hotel front desk number]
• Itinerary highlights: Universal Studios (June 16–18), Kennedy Space Center (June 19), beach day at Cocoa Beach (June 20), rest day at hotel pool (June 21)

I agree to share meals, activities, and any extra expenses evenly. We have arranged health insurance coverage throughout the trip. I will carry a notarized consent letter if asked about it during travel.

Please confirm in writing by April 8, 2025, if you consent or have questions. If you object, we can discuss modifications and, if necessary, apply to the court for relief.

Sincerely,
[Your Printed Name]
[Signature]

Florida Summer Vacation Hotspots for Joint Custody

1. Orlando and Theme Parks

Orlando is a top family destination, but it is crowded and expensive. Consider sharing the itinerary so both parents are involved. Renting a condo near Disney World or Universal Studios can be more economical and support family time.

2. Florida Space Coast (Cocoa Beach, Kennedy Space Center)

For space fans, this region offers enrichment, learning experiences, and beach relaxation. Flights to Orlando and then a beachfront rental in Cocoa Beach make a memorable package.

3. Destin and the Panhandle Beaches

Destin attracts over 2.3 million visitors annually for its white-sand beaches and emerald waters. Staying in a vacation rental with multiple bedrooms supports restful custody transitions.

4. Florida Keys Adventure

The Overseas Highway provides scenic views of turquoise water and coral reefs. Snorkeling, fishing, and marine life visits can provide strong bonding experiences. Couples traveling separately may need organized transportation such as rental vehicles or coaches.

5. Everglades National Park

Introduce educational content and environmental stewardship with canoeing, wildlife observation, and ranger-led tours. Perfect for co-parenting families interested in activity-based bonding.

Local insights: Florida’s heat and humidity in summer can impact children’s comfort. Pack adequate water and sun protection, and plan for rest breaks. Reserve accommodations with pools or indoor escapes to avoid mid-afternoon sun.

Statistics and Data

According to the U.S. Travel Association, nearly 57 percent of families with children under 18 take a summer vacation. Thirty-seven percent travel more than 100 miles from home. These figures show how common family trips are and how essential it is to plan responsibly when you share custody.

A study from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles reveals that Florida ranks among the top five states for long-distance family travel in June and July. The average family trip in Florida is 240 miles and lasts 5.6 days. These statistics reinforce the need for clear communication and travel preparations.

Special Topics for Joint Custody Summer Planning

Parental Conflict and Vacation Disputes

A 2023 Journal of Family Psychology study found that families with unresolved custody conflicts reported 42 percent higher stress during vacation transitions. This stress can lead to longer-term parental disagreements. We consult with families to reduce conflict through pre-trip mediation, shared parenting calendars, and vacation protocols based on Florida law.

Incorporating Therapy or Structured Parenting Plans

For families in a high-conflict phase, structured plans can prevent summer disputes. These may include:

• Meal and lodging cost splits
• Shared day activity limits
• Weekly check-in calls or video chats
• Interim summer parenting coordinators to handle scheduling disputes

Florida courts encourage these agreements to reduce court involvement and support joint parenting.

Co‑Parenting Apps and Shared Calendars

Apps like OurFamilyWizard or Cozi assist co-parents in managing vacations, medical appointments, and financial logs. These tools support transparency without needing court intervention, though courts often admit app records as evidence in custody hearings.

Compensating for Time Imbalance

Florida courts may consider equitable compensation if one parent has more vacation time with the child. For example:

• Allowing the other parent a makeup trip during school months
• Granting decision-making privileges over the child’s extracurricular activity for the academic year

These arrangements work best when included in the parenting plan.

What if We Cannot Agree?

Mediation

Florida requires parents with custody disputes to attempt mediation before court hearings. We have partnerships with credentialed professionals to help guide both parents toward workable solutions. Mediation is usually faster and less adversarial than court.

File a Motion with the Court

When disputes persist, we assist in filing a petition for a parenting plan modification. We use evidence-based presentations:

• Your proposed vacation schedule
• Conflict resolution attempts
• Balancing a child’s best interests and parents’ schedules

The court may order one of the following:

• A defined summer vacation schedule with shared responsibilities
• A neutral parenting coordinator to arbitrate trip adjustments
• Exclusive decision-making authority for one parent during specified periods

Court‑Ordered Parenting Coordinators

In some cases, the court may assign a parenting coordinator to oversee communications and disputes regarding vacations and schedules. This can add security but may cost additional fees.

Our Role as Your Florida Family Law Attorney

At Griffin Family Law, PLLC, we provide end-to-end legal support:

• Drafting vacation notices in compliance with Florida child custody statutes
• Helping update parenting plans to include long-distance or international travel clauses
• Representing you in mediation for vacation disputes
• Filing motions when modifications are needed

Our local knowledge of Florida destinations, laws, and judicial preferences sets us apart from generic attorneys. For example, the circuit courts in Brevard County, Broward County, and Miami–Dade take different views on written consent forms and passport requirements. We can navigate these local nuances for you.

Tips for a Smooth Transition Back to School

After vacation, returning to the regular custody schedule can be difficult for children. A smooth transition plan includes:

• A cooling-off day with flexible pick-up times
• Reunification activities
• Exchange in a calm environment, such as at home instead of a parking lot
• A check-in call, such as “I had a good time with mom. How was your time with dad?”

Effective reconnection reduces stress for both parents and children.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I have to get written permission from the other parent to go on vacation?

A: If it qualifies as a substantial change (typically overnights outside your time-sharing period or interstate travel), written notice at least 21 days in advance is required under Florida Statutes § 61.13(2)(c). For domestic day trips or activities within the plan, written notice may not be necessary.

Q: Can the other parent refuse to sign a consent letter for international travel?

A: Technically, yes. However, refusal can be challenged in family court unless there is a legitimate concern such as risk of abduction or unsafe travel. Courts generally permit reasonable travel unless there is credible evidence of risk.

Q: What if I book non-refundable tickets and the other parent objects?

A: We recommend booking refundable or cancellable options until written risk-free confirmation is received. If one parent refuses without legal cause, courts may later assess who is at fault for non-refundable expenses.

Q: How do I handle a relocation request?

A: If one parent wants to relocate the child outside the designated area, Florida law requires a substantial change in the parenting plan. The relocating parent must file a petition and prove the move is in the child’s best interests. We will provide full representation if relocation is considered.

Why Choose Griffin Family Law, PLLC

• Expertise in Florida Custody Law: We are recognized as accomplished Florida child custody and family law attorneys, regularly featured in firm directories and local legal associations.
• Client‑Centered Approach: We treat you as partners, not cases. We take the time to understand your parenting priorities and vacation goals.
• Local Knowledge: We understand county‑specific judicial preferences across Florida, from Palm Beach to Pensacola, and tailor your plans accordingly.
• Full-Service Support: We do not simply file paperwork. We provide writing, mediation, consultations, and courtroom advocacy if needed.
• Proactive Communication: We coach you in conflict avoidance and effective co‑parenting strategies throughout the vacation.

Contact Us

We invite you to schedule a personalized consultation to discuss your summer vacation plans, joint custody concerns, and parenting plan provisions. As your trusted custody lawyer in Florida, Griffin Family Law, PLLC, is dedicated to making summer breaks a time of joy, not conflict.

Reach out today to speak with us via phone or email, or visit our Orlando or Tampa office. Let us assist you in turning family vacations into lasting memories through sound legal planning.

Planning summer vacations under a joint custody arrangement involves more than choosing destinations. It requires thoughtful legal considerations, clear communication, and practical coordination. From the 21‑day notice requirement under Florida custody law to international consent letters, detailed itineraries, and emergency plans, our approach ensures each family member feels respected and prepared.

With our guidance, you can craft vacation arrangements that support your child’s best interests and comply with Florida law. We look forward to helping you navigate the journey to a memorable, conflict-free summer break. Let Griffin Family Law, PLLC be your trusted ally.