Preparing for Graduation as a Divorced Parent in Orlando

As most parents know, child custody laws no longer apply when a child reaches legal adulthood. Often, this moment occurs in tandem with the child’s 18th birthday. If a child turns 18 before graduating from high school, the time sharing plan will continue until their graduation date. At this point in time, divorced parents in Florida might wonder about how to proceed. Does the child time sharing plan end automatically? How do you ensure continued time with your adult child after they graduate? Can a child time sharing lawyer in Orlando help with these issues?

Does My Child Time Sharing Plan End Automatically After Graduation in Florida? 

Generally speaking, a child time sharing plan ends automatically when your child graduates from high school. However, it may also end later if your child is younger than 18 at the time of their graduation. This situation is common if your child skipped a grade due to their accelerated learning abilities, or if they have a late birthday.

In this situation, the child custody arrangement will remain legally binding until their 18th birthday. In other words, your time sharing plan may end at graduation or the 18th birthday – whichever comes later.

It is worth noting that some children remain in high school beyond the age of 18. This is common if your child was held back for one grade due to learning challenges. In this situation, the child custody arrangement may remain binding until the adult child’s 19th birthday.

You Should Still Notify the Court of the Approaching Graduation Date 

To avoid unnecessary legal issues, it is best to notify the court of the upcoming graduation date well in advance. Aside from ensuring a seamless transition into your child’s legal adulthood, notifying the court may also help avoid issues with child support. A family law attorney in Orlando can help you communicate effectively with the court. That said, no legal steps are necessary to “manually” end your time sharing plan.

The Graduation Ceremony Itself May Cause Conflicts 

Be aware that graduation ceremonies commonly cause conflicts between parents in Florida. You may argue with your ex over photographs, seating arrangements, and planned celebrations after the ceremony. Plan out this important date in advance and address potential sources of conflict to avoid issues.

 Plan Out Time With Your Adult Child After Graduation 

After your child graduates, they may be under no obligation to spend any time with you. As a legal adult, they are free to live wherever they like. With no real way to enforce visitation, you may need to re-assess your approach to parenting time. Communicate with your child and express your desire to spend time with them after their graduation.

Consider organizing casual meetups for lunch or coffee as your adult child navigates life. If you feel comfortable with it, you can also offer to let your child continue living with you after graduation. However, you should remember that they are under no obligation to accept this offer.

Can a Child Time Sharing Lawyer in Orlando Help? 

If you’re uncertain about the future as your child approaches graduation, consider speaking with an experienced child time sharing lawyer in Orlando. These legal professionals may be able to assess your unique situation and offer helpful guidance. Speak with Steve Marsee, P.A. to get a sense of what to expect as your child reaches legal adulthood.

Source:

 psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/splitopia/201611/should-we-wait-our-kids-graduate-we-divorce