How Does Seasonal Living Complicate Child Custody for Snowbird Families in Florida?

 Posted on June 20, 2025 in Child Custody

More and more families are embracing a lifestyle that spans multiple states. Whether due to remote work, flexible schooling, or a desire to own property in different climates, the traditional snowbird model that was once limited to retirees is now being adopted by younger parents and their children. While this arrangement may offer lifestyle benefits, it can also create complicated legal challenges when parents separate or divorce. One of the most pressing issues involves child custody.

As of June 2025, Florida courts continue to rely on well-established state laws and national standards to determine jurisdiction and parenting arrangements, even in cases involving families who live seasonally in multiple states. If you are a snowbird considering divorce, speak with a qualified Miami, FL divorce lawyer to understand the options and implications.

Can Florida Decide My Custody Case if My Family Lives in Two States?

In many child custody cases, the first question is: Which state has the authority to decide the matter? In Florida, child custody jurisdiction is determined by the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA), which has been adopted statewide through Florida Statutes § 61.514.

Under this law, a Florida court may have jurisdiction if Florida is the child's "home state," defined as wherever the child lived with a parent for six consecutive months or more before a custody case is filed. For families who split their time between states, determining the home state can be tricky. If both Florida and another state could claim to be the home state, the case may involve a jurisdictional dispute. These situations require a skilled lawyer, especially when each parent prefers a different state’s court system.

How Do Seasonal Living Arrangements Affect Parenting Plans?

Florida requires a detailed parenting plan any time divorcing or separating parents share a minor child. According to Florida Statutes § 61.13, this plan must include time-sharing schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and communication protocols. For snowbird families, a standard alternating-week schedule may not work.

Instead, the court may approve a more customized plan that takes into account:

• Extended out-of-state travel

• School-year versus summer living arrangements

• Virtual visitation when parents are geographically distant

• Adjustments for flexible work and travel schedules

No matter how creative the plan is, the court must be convinced that it supports the child’s best interests. Florida courts typically prioritize stability in schooling, continuity of relationships, and minimal disruption to a child’s routine.

Do I Need a Lawyer for Custody if My Family Spends Time in Multiple States?

If your family’s living arrangements span Florida and another state, custody issues are likely to be more complicated than average. Determining the right jurisdiction, negotiating a realistic parenting plan, and presenting your case to the court all require careful legal strategy. A knowledgeable Miami family law attorney can help you pursue a custody arrangement that fits your child’s needs and your family’s lifestyle, while still meeting Florida’s legal standards.

Contact a Miami, FL Child Custody Lawyer

If you are a seasonal resident considering divorce or separation, speak with a Miami, FL child custody attorney. At Miami Family Law Group, PLLC, we help families in Miami navigate parenting disputes with clarity and compassion. We provide honest, attentive legal support tailored to your unique needs. Call us today at 305-520-7874 to schedule a confidential consultation.