[FL] How do I serve a parenting plan petition if I'm blocked?
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You file your petition in the county where the child resides (Fla. Stat. § 61.514). After filing, you’ll get a stamped copy, and the sheriff can serve the mother at that address (Fla. Stat. § 48.031).
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I need help with a parenting plan petition for my daughter. I can’t get a hold of her mother—I’m blocked.
Have you previously filed any custody or visitation documents?
No. I don’t know how. I downloaded the Escambia County family law forms but I’m lost.
What outcome are you hoping for?
Regularly scheduled time with my daughter—weekends, holidays, etc.
Anything else the lawyer should know?
I need to know how to serve her mother with a shared parenting plan so I can set up regular visits.
Hi! Has paternity been established?
Yes, I’m the father.
Has the mother hidden her address?
No, I have it.
You file your petition in the county where the child resides (Fla. Stat. § 61.514). After filing, you’ll get a stamped copy, and the sheriff can serve the mother at that address (Fla. Stat. § 48.031).
I don’t know where to begin with filing. I’ve researched but want it set in stone.
Have you located the family court nearest your ex?
Yes. Also—my daughter has another man’s last name on the birth certificate (assumed father). Since I was determined the father later, can I avoid paying back child support for the two years I wasn’t in her life?
When were those two years?
She was born 10/24/2022. She’ll be 3 this year. I was adjudicated the father in February of this year.
There’s typically a two-year look-back rule. They can usually only go back two years total, so this could limit back support to about one year.
Thanks.
