Definition and Meaning
The "Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.995(c)" is an official legal document used to establish a Relocation/Long Distance Parenting Plan in the context of family law. This form is specifically designed for situations where one parent intends to relocate more than 50 miles away from the primary residence of the minor children involved. The purpose of this form is to ensure that the child's best interests are prioritized by establishing a detailed plan for ongoing parental responsibilities, communication methods, transportation arrangements, and time-sharing schedules. The form requires agreement from both parents and is subject to court approval to ensure compliance with Florida's family law standards.
Key Elements of the Form
The form contains several critical components that must be addressed to create a comprehensive Relocation/Long Distance Parenting Plan. These elements include:
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Time-Sharing Schedule: Outlining specific times during which each parent will have custody of the child, considering the new relocation distance.
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Communication Methods: Establishing preferred communication channels between the child and non-custodial parent, including phone calls, video conferencing, and other digital means.
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Parental Responsibilities: Identifying the responsibilities each parent will maintain regarding the child's education, medical needs, and overall welfare.
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Transportation Arrangements: Detailing how the child will travel between parents, including who will bear the transportation costs.
Each section is designed to promote clarity and collaboration between parents while focusing on the child’s well-being.
Steps to Complete the Form
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Review the Form: Ensure you understand each section's requirements and consider how they apply to your unique situation.
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Gather Necessary Information: Collect details about the proposed relocation, including the new address, transportation logistics, and the impact on existing time-sharing plans.
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Complete Each Section: Fill out the form with accurate and comprehensive information, ensuring all mandatory fields are addressed.
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Agreement and Signatures: Both parents must read, agree, and sign the form. It is recommended that each parent keeps a copy for their records.
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Court Submission: Submit the completed form to the relevant family court for approval. This may require an accompanying motion for relocation.
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Follow-Up: Monitor the case's status and be prepared to attend any court hearings if required, ensuring compliance with the final approved plan.
Legal Use of the Form
The legal use of this form is governed by the Florida family court system, which mandates its use in divorce or separation cases involving minor children when one parent plans to relocate. By completing this form, parents are legally documenting their parenting plan, which serves as a binding agreement once approved by the court. This legally binding document helps prevent future disputes by clearly delineating each parent's rights and responsibilities, thus providing a stable arrangement for the child.
Who Typically Uses the Form
This form is most commonly used by parents who are either divorced or separated and are considering a relocation that would impact the current time-sharing and custody arrangements. It is also used by family law attorneys who are advising clients on the legal requirements and helping them prepare for a relocation request. Court mediators may also utilize it to facilitate agreement between parties during custody and relocation negotiations.
State-Specific Rules
Florida has specific guidelines concerning parental relocation with a minor child. State law requires that any parent wishing to move more than 50 miles from their current residence must file this form along with a petition for relocation. The potential impact on the child’s stability and the involvement of both parents in their upbringing are critical considerations. It’s important to be aware that failure to comply with these rules could lead to legal penalties, including the possible reversal of a relocation action or modification of custody arrangements.
Examples of Using the Form
Consider a scenario where one parent receives a job offer in another city. They wish to take the children but currently share custody with the other parent. To legally proceed with the move, they must complete the Relocation/Long Distance Parenting Plan using Form 12.995(c). By detailing all necessary arrangements — including adjusted visitation schedules and communication plans — both parents can maintain active roles in their children's lives despite the distance.
How to Obtain the Form
The Florida Supreme Court Approved Family Law Form 12.995(c) can be obtained through several channels:
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Online: Access the form through the Florida Courts website or the local family court portal.
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In Person: Visit a local family court clerk’s office to request a physical copy.
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From Legal Counsel: Family law attorneys typically provide clients with the necessary forms and offer guidance on how to complete them.
Each option ensures that the form is authentic and up-to-date with the latest legal requirements in Florida.
Form Submission Methods
The completed form can be submitted through various methods, depending on the court's preferences and technological capabilities:
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Electronic Filing: Many courts allow for online submission via the Florida Courts E-Filing Portal, automating the process and offering instant confirmation.
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Mail: Sending a paper copy through certified mail provides a physical record and receipt of submission.
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In-Person: Delivering the form directly to the court clerk ensures immediate acceptance and addresses any last-minute questions or adjustments.
Selecting the right submission method is crucial for timely processing and approval of your relocation plan.
