Joint Custody
"Joint custody" is an older term that Florida no longer uses in its statutes. Florida instead uses "shared parental responsibility" for decision-making and a "parenting plan" with "time-sharing" for how children split time between parents. If you've heard "joint custody" from another state or in casual conversation, the Florida equivalent is shared parental responsibility combined with a court-approved parenting plan.
Last updated June 21, 2026
Legal Definition
Florida replaced "custody" terminology with "shared parental responsibility," "parental responsibility," "parenting plan," and "time-sharing" under F.S. §61.046 and §61.13; courts presume shared parental responsibility unless it would harm the child.
Example
Clients often ask about "joint custody," and we explain Florida instead orders shared parental responsibility through a parenting plan.
Related Statutes
- 61.046
- 61.13
Related Terms
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