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McCauley Law Offices
Carroll L. McCauley III
Protecting What Matters Most For Over 25 Years

Equal Time Sharing in Florida: What Parents Need to Know

Last updated on May 12, 2025

Florida law now presumes that equal timesharing is in the best interests of the child. At McCauley Law Offices, P.A., we help both mothers and fathers navigate this significant change in the law and advocate for parenting plans that truly reflect the needs of each family.

With over 25 years of experience serving clients in Panama City, Panama City Beach, Lynn Haven, South Walton County, DeFuniak Springs, Port St. Joe, Marianna, Bonifay and across Northwest Florida, attorney Carroll L. McCauley III brings seasoned legal insight to every custody and divorce matter.

Understanding the Presumption of Equal Time Sharing

Under Section 61.13, Florida Statutes, courts now begin with the presumption that children should spend equal time with both parents. This means that, unless proven otherwise, judges are expected to award 50/50 timesharing in a parenting plan.

This presumption aims to promote continued and meaningful involvement by both parents in the lives of their children. Many fathers view this as a long-overdue shift toward fairness in custody decisions.

However, this presumption is not absolute. It can be rebutted by showing that equal timesharing is not in the best interest of the child based on the unique facts of the case.

Challenging or Supporting Equal Time Sharing

At McCauley Law Offices, P.A., we represent both:

  • Fathers seeking to assert their rights to equal time and active parenting roles; and
  • Mothers (and fathers) seeking to overcome the presumption by demonstrating that a different timesharing arrangement better serves the child’s needs and well-being.

Florida law still requires the court to evaluate 20 statutory factors to determine the best interests of the child. These include:

  • The ability of each parent to meet the child’s needs
  • The child’s relationship with each parent
  • The mental and physical health of the parents
  • Evidence of domestic violence, substance abuse, or neglect
  • Geographic viability and the ability to foster communication between households

Whether you are pursuing equal timesharing or believe your child’s best interests require a different plan, we will present a thorough case backed by the facts, expert evidence when necessary, and a clear legal strategy.

How We Can Help

Every family is different. A one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work when it comes to parenting and custody. That’s why our firm takes the time to understand your goals, your child’s unique needs, and the facts that matter most to Florida judges.

We help you:

  • Develop a strong parenting plan
  • Prepare for mediation or court hearings
  • Present persuasive evidence to support or challenge equal timesharing
  • Protect your relationship with your child

Let us help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Seek Out Experienced Legal Counsel

For that reason, if you are involved in a custody dispute, you will want to work with a law firm that understands how Florida law works and how judges view these situations. You can schedule an initial consultation with our office by calling 850-299-4070 or by reaching us online.