FL Statutes CH 61

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate
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TheFloridaSenate 2011FloridaStatutes
TITLEVI CIVILPRACTICEAND PROCEDURE
CHAPTER61 DISSOLUTIONOFMARRIAGE;SUPPORT;TIMESHARING PARTI GENERAL PROVISIONS (ss.61.00161.45) PARTII UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT (ss.61.50161.542) PARTI GENERAL PROVISIONS
CHAPTER61 DISSOLUTIONOF MARRIAGE; VIEWENTIRECHAPTER SUPPORT;TIME SHARING
61.001 Purposeofchapter. 61.011 Dissolutioninchancery. 61.021 Residencerequirements. 61.031 Dissolutionofmarriagetobeavinculo. 61.043 Commencementofaproceedingfordissolutionofmarriageorfor alimonyandchildsupport;dissolutionquestionnaire. 61.044 Certainexistingdefensesabolished. 61.046 Definitions. 61.052 Dissolutionofmarriage. 61.061 Proceedingsagainstnonresidents. 61.071 Alimonypendentelite;suitmoney. 61.075 Equitabledistributionofmaritalassetsandliabilities. 61.076 Distributionofretirementplansupondissolutionofmarriage. 61.077 Determinationofentitlementtosetoffsorcreditsuponsaleofmarital home. 61.079 Premaritalagreements. 61.08 Alimony.
http://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2011/Chapter61/All
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61.09 Alimonyandchildsupportunconnectedwithdissolution. 61.10 Adjudicationofobligationtosupportspouseorminorchild unconnectedwithdissolution;parentingplan. 61.11 Writs. 61.12 Attachmentorgarnishmentofamountsdueforalimonyorchild support. 61.122 Parentingplanrecommendation;presumptionofpsychologistsgood faith;prerequisitetoparentsfilingsuit;awardoffees,costs,reimbursement. 61.125 Parentingcoordination. 61.13 Supportofchildren;parentingandtimesharing;powersofcourt. 61.13001 Parentalrelocationwithachild. 61.13002 Temporarytimesharingmodificationandchildsupport modificationduetomilitaryservice. 61.13003 Courtorderedelectroniccommunicationbetweenaparentanda child. 61.1301 Incomedeductionorders. 61.13015 Petitionforsuspensionordenialofprofessionallicensesand certificates. 61.13016 Suspensionofdriverslicensesandmotorvehicleregistrations. 61.1354 Sharingofinformationbetweenconsumerreportingagenciesand theIVDagency. 61.14 Enforcementandmodificationofsupport,maintenance,oralimony agreementsororders. 61.16 Attorneysfees,suitmoney,andcosts. 61.17 Alimonyandchildsupport;additionalmethodforenforcingorders andjudgments;costs,expenses. 61.18 Alimonyandchildsupport;defaultinundertakingofbondpostedto ensurepayment. 61.181 Depositoryforalimonytransactions,support,maintenance,and supportpayments;fees. 61.1811 ClerkoftheCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystem TrustFund.
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61.1812 ChildSupportIncentiveTrustFund. 61.1814 ChildSupportEnforcementApplicationandProgramRevenue TrustFund. 61.1816 ChildSupportClearingTrustFund. 61.1824 StateDisbursementUnit. 61.1825 StateCaseRegistry. 61.1826 ProcurementofservicesforStateDisbursementUnitandthenon TitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistry;contractsandcooperative agreements;penalties;withholdingpayment. 61.1827 Identifyinginformationconcerningapplicantsforandrecipientsof childsupportservices. 61.183 Mediationofcertaincontestedissues. 61.19 Entryofjudgmentofdissolutionofmarriage,delayperiod. 61.191 Application. 61.20 Socialinvestigationandrecommendationsregardingaparentingplan. 61.21 Parentingcourseauthorized;fees;requiredattendanceauthorized; contempt. 61.29 Childsupportguidelines;principles. 61.30 Childsupportguidelines;retroactivechildsupport. 61.401 Appointmentofguardianadlitem. 61.402 Qualificationsofguardiansadlitem. 61.403 Guardiansadlitem;powersandauthority. 61.404 Guardiansadlitem;confidentiality. 61.405 Guardiansadlitem;immunity. 61.45 Courtorderedparentingplan;riskofviolation;bond. 61.001 Purposeofchapter. (1) Thischaptershallbeliberallyconstruedandapplied. (2) Itspurposesare: (a) Topreservetheintegrityofmarriageandtosafeguardmeaningful familyrelationships; (b) Topromotetheamicablesettlementofdisputesthatarisebetween partiestoamarriage;and
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(c) Tomitigatethepotentialharmtothespousesandtheirchildren causedbytheprocessoflegaldissolutionofmarriage. History.s.1,ch.71241;s.111,ch.86220. 61.011 Dissolutioninchancery.Proceedingsunderthischapterarein chancery. History.s.1,Oct.31,1828;RS1477;GS1925;RGS3188;CGL4980;s.2,ch. 29737,1955;s.16,ch.67254;s.2,ch.71241. Note. Formers.65.01. 61.021 Residencerequirements. Toobtainadissolutionofmarriage,one ofthepartiestothemarriagemustreside6monthsinthestatebeforethe filingofthepetition. History.s.1,ch.522,1853;RS1478;s.1,ch.4726,1899;GS1926;RGS3189; CGL4981;s.1,ch.16009,1933;s.1,ch.16975,1935;s.1,ch.5744;s.1,ch.57 1974;s.16,ch.67254;s.3,ch.71241;s.112,ch.86220. Note. Formers.65.02. 61.031 Dissolutionofmarriagetobeavinculo. Nodissolutionof marriageisfrombedandboard,butisfrombondsofmatrimony. History.s.3,Feb.14,1835;RS1479;GS1927;RGS3190;CGL4982;s.16, ch.67254;s.4,ch.71241. Note. Formers.65.03. 61.043 Commencementofaproceedingfordissolutionofmarriageorfor alimonyandchildsupport;dissolutionquestionnaire. (1) Aproceedingfordissolutionofmarriageoraproceedingunders. 61.09shallbecommencedbyfilinginthecircuitcourtapetitionentitledInre themarriageof ,husband,and ,wife.Acopyofthepetition togetherwithacopyofasummonsshallbeservedupontheotherpartytothe marriageinthesamemannerasserviceofpapersincivilactionsgenerally. (2) Uponfilingfordissolutionofmarriage,thepetitionermustcomplete andfilewiththeclerkofthecircuitcourtanunsignedanonymous informationalquestionnaire.Forpurposesofanonymity,completed questionnairesmustbekeptinaseparatefileforlaterdistributionbytheclerk toresearchersfromtheFloridaStateUniversityCenterforMarriageand
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Family.Thesequestionnairesmustbemadeavailabletoresearchersfromthe FloridaStateUniversityCenterforMarriageandFamilyattheirrequest.The actualquestionnaireshallbeformulatedbyresearchersfromFloridaState Universitywhoshalldistributethemtotheclerkofthecircuitcourtineach county. History.s.5,ch.71241;s.11,ch.98403. 61.044 Certainexistingdefensesabolished.Thedefensestodivorceand legalseparationofcondonation,collusion,recrimination,andlachesare abolished. History.s.6,ch.71241. 61.046 Definitions. Asusedinthischapter,theterm: (1) BusinessdaymeansanydayotherthanaSaturday,Sunday,orlegal holiday. (2) ClerkofCourtChildSupportCollectionSystemorCLERCSystem meanstheautomatedsystemestablishedpursuanttos.61.181(2)(b)1., integratingallclerksofcourtanddepositoriesandthroughwhichpayment dataandStateCaseRegistrydataistransmittedtothedepartments automatedchildsupportenforcementsystem. (3) DepartmentmeanstheDepartmentofRevenue. (4) Depositorymeansthecentralgovernmentaldepositoryestablished pursuanttos.61.181,createdbyspecialactoftheLegislatureorotherentity establishedbeforeJune1,1985,toperformdepositoryfunctionsandto receive,record,report,disburse,monitor,andotherwisehandlealimonyand childsupportpaymentsnototherwiserequiredtobeprocessedbytheState DisbursementUnit. (5) Electroniccommunicationmeanscontact,otherthanfacetoface contact,facilitatedbytoolssuchastelephones,electronicmailoremail, webcams,videoconferencingequipmentandsoftwareorotherwiredor wirelesstechnologies,orothermeansofcommunicationtosupplementface tofacecontactbetweenaparentandthatparentsminorchild. (6) FederalCaseRegistryofChildSupportOrdersmeansthe automatedregistryofsupportorderabstractsandotherinformation
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establishedandmaintainedbytheUnitedStatesDepartmentofHealthand HumanServicesasprovidedby42U.S.C.s.653(h). (7) Healthinsurancemeanscoverageunderafeeforservice arrangement,healthmaintenanceorganization,orpreferredprovider organization,andothertypesofcoverageavailabletoeitherparent,under whichmedicalservicescouldbeprovidedtoadependentchild. (8) Incomemeansanyformofpaymenttoanindividual,regardlessof source,including,butnotlimitedto:wages,salary,commissionsandbonuses, compensationasanindependentcontractor,workerscompensation, disabilitybenefits,annuityandretirementbenefits,pensions,dividends, interest,royalties,trusts,andanyotherpayments,madebyanyperson, privateentity,federalorstategovernment,oranyunitoflocalgovernment. UnitedStatesDepartmentofVeteransAffairsdisabilitybenefitsand unemploymentcompensation,asdefinedinchapter443,areexcludedfrom thisdefinitionofincomeexceptforpurposesofestablishinganamountof support. (9) IVDmeansservicesprovidedpursuanttoTitleIVDoftheSocial SecurityAct,42U.S.C.ss.651etseq. (10) Localofficermeansanelectedorappointedconstitutionalor chartergovernmentofficialincluding,butnotlimitedto,thestateattorney andclerkofthecircuitcourt. (11) Nationalmedicalsupportnoticemeansthenoticerequiredunder 42U.S.C.s.666(a)(19). (12) Obligeemeansthepersontowhompaymentsaremadepursuant toanorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyinganobligationforalimony, forchildsupport,orforalimonyandchildsupport. (13) Obligormeansapersonresponsibleformakingpayments pursuanttoanorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyinganobligationfor alimony,forchildsupport,orforalimonyandchildsupport. (14) Parentingplanmeansadocumentcreatedtogovernthe relationshipbetweentheparentsrelatingtodecisionsthatmustbemade regardingtheminorchildandmustcontainatimesharingscheduleforthe
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parentsandchild.Theissuesconcerningtheminorchildmayinclude,butare notlimitedto,thechildseducation,healthcare,andphysical,social,and emotionalwellbeing.Increatingtheplan,allcircumstancesbetweenthe parents,includingtheirhistoricrelationship,domesticviolence,andother factorsmustbetakenintoconsideration. (a) Theparentingplanmustbe: 1. Developedandagreedtobytheparentsandapprovedbyacourt;or 2. Establishedbythecourt,withorwithouttheuseofacourtordered parentingplanrecommendation,iftheparentscannotagreetoaplanorthe parentsagreedtoaplanthatisnotapprovedbythecourt. (b) Anyparentingplanformulatedunderthischaptermustaddressall jurisdictionalissues,includingtheUniformChildCustodyJurisdictionand EnforcementAct,partIIofthischapter,theInternationalChildAbduction RemediesAct,42U.S.C.ss.11601etseq.,theParentalKidnappingPrevention Act,andtheConventionontheCivilAspectsofInternationalChild AbductionenactedattheHagueonOctober25,1980. (c) ForpurposesoftheUniformChildCustodyJurisdictionand EnforcementAct,partIIofthischapter,ajudgmentororderincorporatinga parentingplanunderthispartisachildcustodydeterminationunderpartII ofthischapter. (d) ForpurposesoftheInternationalChildAbductionRemediesAct,42 U.S.C.ss.11601etseq.,andtheConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbduction,enactedattheHagueonOctober25,1980, rightsofcustodyandrightsofaccessaredeterminedpursuanttothe parentingplanunderthispart. (15) Parentingplanrecommendationmeansanonbinding recommendationconcerningoneormoreelementsofaparentingplanmade byacourtappointedmentalhealthpractitionerorotherprofessional designatedpursuanttos.61.20,s.61.401,orFloridaFamilyLawRulesof Procedure12.363. (16) Payormeansanemployerorformeremployeroranyotherperson oragencyprovidingoradministeringincometotheobligor.
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(17) Sharedparentalresponsibilitymeansacourtorderedrelationship inwhichbothparentsretainfullparentalrightsandresponsibilitieswith respecttotheirchildandinwhichbothparentsconferwitheachothersothat majordecisionsaffectingthewelfareofthechildwillbedeterminedjointly. (18) Soleparentalresponsibilitymeansacourtorderedrelationshipin whichoneparentmakesdecisionsregardingtheminorchild. (19) StateCaseRegistrymeanstheautomatedregistrymaintainedby theTitleIVDagency,containingrecordsofeachTitleIVDcaseandofeach supportorderestablishedormodifiedinthestateonorafterOctober1,1998. SuchrecordsshallconsistofdataelementsasrequiredbytheUnitedStates SecretaryofHealthandHumanServices. (20) StateDisbursementUnitmeanstheunitestablishedandoperated bytheTitleIVDagencytoprovideonecentraladdressforcollectionand disbursementofchildsupportpaymentsmadeincasesenforcedbythe departmentpursuanttoTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityActandincasesnot beingenforcedbythedepartmentinwhichthesupportorderwasinitially issuedinthisstateonorafterJanuary1,1994,andinwhichtheobligorschild supportobligationisbeingpaidthroughincomedeductionorder. (21) Supportordermeansajudgment,decree,ororder,whether temporaryorfinal,issuedbyacourtofcompetentjurisdictionor administrativeagencyforthesupportandmaintenanceofachildwhich providesformonetarysupport,healthcare,arrearages,orpastsupport.When thechildsupportobligationisbeingenforcedbytheDepartmentofRevenue, thetermsupportorderalsomeansajudgment,decree,ororder,whether temporaryorfinal,issuedbyacourtofcompetentjurisdictionforthesupport andmaintenanceofachildandthespouseorformerspouseoftheobligor withwhomthechildislivingwhichprovidesformonetarysupport,health care,arrearages,orpastsupport. (22) Support,unlessotherwisespecified,means: (a) Childsupportand,whenthechildsupportobligationisbeing enforcedbytheDepartmentofRevenue,spousalsupportoralimonyforthe spouseorformerspouseoftheobligorwithwhomthechildisliving.
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(b) ChildsupportonlyincasesnotbeingenforcedbytheDepartmentof Revenue. (23) Timesharingschedulemeansatimetablethatmustbeincludedin theparentingplanthatspecifiesthetime,includingovernightsandholidays, thataminorchildwillspendwitheachparent.Thetimesharingschedule shallbe: (a) Developedandagreedtobytheparentsofaminorchildand approvedbythecourt;or (b) Establishedbythecourtiftheparentscannotagreeoriftheiragreed uponscheduleisnotapprovedbythecourt. History.s.113,ch.86220;s.1,ch.92138;s.1,ch.93188;s.59,ch.93268; s.8,ch.94124;s.1363,ch.95147;s.3,ch.96183;s.1,ch.97170;s.41,ch.98 397;s.2,ch.2001158;s.1,ch.2002173;s.1,ch.2004334;s.1,ch.2007179;s. 2,ch.200861;s.1,ch.200990;s.1,ch.2009180. 61.052 Dissolutionofmarriage. (1) Nojudgmentofdissolutionofmarriageshallbegrantedunlessoneof thefollowingfactsappears,whichshallbepleadedgenerally: (a) Themarriageisirretrievablybroken. (b) Mentalincapacityofoneoftheparties.However,nodissolutionshall beallowedunlessthepartyallegedtobeincapacitatedshallhavebeen adjudgedincapacitatedaccordingtotheprovisionsofs.744.331fora precedingperiodofatleast3years.Noticeoftheproceedingfordissolution shallbeservedupononeofthenearestbloodrelativesorguardianofthe incapacitatedperson,andtherelativeorguardianshallbeentitledtoappear andtobeheardupontheissues.Iftheincapacitatedpartyhasageneral guardianotherthanthepartybringingtheproceeding,thepetitionand summonsshallbeservedupontheincapacitatedpartyandtheguardian;and theguardianshalldefendandprotecttheinterestsoftheincapacitatedparty. Iftheincapacitatedpartyhasnoguardianotherthanthepartybringingthe proceeding,thecourtshallappointaguardianadlitemtodefendandprotect theinterestsoftheincapacitatedparty.However,inalldissolutionsof
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marriagegrantedonthebasisofincapacity,thecourtmayrequirethe petitionertopayalimonypursuanttotheprovisionsofs.61.08. (2) Basedontheevidenceatthehearing,whichevidenceneednotbe corroboratedexcepttoestablishthattheresidencerequirementsofs.61.021 aremetwhichmaybecorroboratedbyavalidFloridadriverslicense,a Floridavotersregistrationcard,avalidFloridaidentificationcardissued unders.322.051,orthetestimonyoraffidavitofathirdparty,thecourtshall disposeofthepetitionfordissolutionofmarriagewhenthepetitionisbased ontheallegationthatthemarriageisirretrievablybrokenasfollows: (a) Ifthereisnominorchildofthemarriageandiftherespondingparty doesnot,byanswertothepetitionfordissolution,denythatthemarriageis irretrievablybroken,thecourtshallenterajudgmentofdissolutionofthe marriageifthecourtfindsthatthemarriageisirretrievablybroken. (b) Whenthereisaminorchildofthemarriage,orwhentheresponding partydeniesbyanswertothepetitionfordissolutionthatthemarriageis irretrievablybroken,thecourtmay: 1. Ordereitherorbothpartiestoconsultwithamarriagecounselor, psychologist,psychiatrist,minister,priest,rabbi,oranyotherpersondeemed qualifiedbythecourtandacceptabletothepartyorpartiesorderedtoseek consultation;or 2. Continuetheproceedingsforareasonablelengthoftimenottoexceed 3months,toenablethepartiesthemselvestoeffectareconciliation;or 3. Takesuchotheractionasmaybeinthebestinterestofthepartiesand theminorchildofthemarriage. If, at any time, the court finds that the marriage is irretrievably broken, the courtshallenterajudgmentofdissolutionofthemarriage.Ifthecourtfinds that the marriage is not irretrievably broken, it shall deny the petition for dissolutionofmarriage. (3) Duringanyperiodofcontinuance,thecourtmaymakeappropriate ordersforthesupportandalimonyoftheparties;theparentingplan,support,
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maintenance,andeducationoftheminorchildofthemarriage;attorneys fees;andthepreservationofthepropertyoftheparties. (4) Ajudgmentofdissolutionofmarriageshallresultineachspouse havingthestatusofbeingsingleandunmarried.Nojudgmentofdissolution ofmarriagerendersthechildofthemarriageachildbornoutofwedlock. (5) Thecourtmayenforceanantenuptialagreementtoarbitrateadispute inaccordancewiththelawandtraditionchosenbytheparties. (6) Anyinjunctionforprotectionagainstdomesticviolencearisingoutof thedissolutionofmarriageproceedingshallbeissuedasaseparateorderin compliancewithchapter741andshallnotbeincludedinthejudgmentof dissolutionofmarriage. (7) Intheinitialpleadingforadissolutionofmarriageasaseparate attachmenttothepleading,eachpartyisrequiredtoprovidehisorhersocial securitynumberandthefullnamesandsocialsecuritynumbersofeachofthe minorchildrenofthemarriage. (8) PursuanttothefederalPersonalResponsibilityandWorkOpportunity ReconciliationActof1996,eachpartyisrequiredtoprovidehisorhersocial securitynumberinaccordancewiththissection.Eachpartyisalsorequiredto providethefullname,dateofbirth,andsocialsecuritynumberforeach minorchildofthemarriage.Disclosureofsocialsecuritynumbersobtained throughthisrequirementshallbelimitedtothepurposeofadministrationof theTitleIVDprogramforchildsupportenforcement. History.s.7,ch.71241;s.26,ch.73333;s.38,ch.81259;s.1,ch.86150;s. 114,ch.86220;s.1,ch.8961;s.107,ch.8996;s.1,ch.91246;s.2,ch.93188;s. 4,ch.96183;s.1,ch.96392;s.2,ch.97170;s.3,ch.97242;s.12,ch.98403;s. 1,ch.99375;s.3,ch.200861. 61.061 Proceedingsagainstnonresidents. Proceedingsmaybebrought againstpersonsresidingoutofthestate. History.s.1,Feb.4,1833;RS1482;GS1930;RGS3193;CGL4985;s.2,ch. 29737,1955;s.16,ch.67254;s.8,ch.71241. Note. Formers.65.06.
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61.071 Alimonypendentelite;suitmoney.Ineveryproceedingfor dissolutionofthemarriage,apartymayclaimalimonyandsuitmoneyinthe petitionorbymotion,andifthepetitioniswellfounded,thecourtshallallow areasonablesumtherefor.Ifapartyinanyproceedingfordissolutionof marriageclaimsalimonyorsuitmoneyinhisorheranswerorbymotion,and theanswerormotioniswellfounded,thecourtshallallowareasonablesum therefor. History.ss.1,2,ch.3581,1885;RS1483;GS1931;RGS3194;CGL4986;s. 2,ch.29737,1955;s.16,ch.67254;s.9,ch.71241;s.319,ch.95147. Note. Formers.65.07. 61.075 Equitabledistributionofmaritalassetsandliabilities. (1) Inaproceedingfordissolutionofmarriage,inadditiontoallother remediesavailabletoacourttodoequitybetweentheparties,orina proceedingfordispositionofassetsfollowingadissolutionofmarriagebya courtwhichlackedjurisdictionovertheabsentspouseorlackedjurisdiction todisposeoftheassets,thecourtshallsetaparttoeachspousethatspouses nonmaritalassetsandliabilities,andindistributingthemaritalassetsand liabilitiesbetweentheparties,thecourtmustbeginwiththepremisethatthe distributionshouldbeequal,unlessthereisajustificationforanunequal distributionbasedonallrelevantfactors,including: (a) Thecontributiontothemarriagebyeachspouse,including contributionstothecareandeducationofthechildrenandservicesas homemaker. (b) Theeconomiccircumstancesoftheparties. (c) Thedurationofthemarriage. (d) Anyinterruptionofpersonalcareersoreducationalopportunitiesof eitherparty. (e) Thecontributionofonespousetothepersonalcareeroreducational opportunityoftheotherspouse. (f) Thedesirabilityofretaininganyasset,includinganinterestina business,corporation,orprofessionalpractice,intactandfreefromanyclaim orinterferencebytheotherparty.
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(g) Thecontributionofeachspousetotheacquisition,enhancement,and productionofincomeortheimprovementof,ortheincurringofliabilitiesto, boththemaritalassetsandthenonmaritalassetsoftheparties. (h) Thedesirabilityofretainingthemaritalhomeasaresidenceforany dependentchildofthemarriage,oranyotherparty,whenitwouldbe equitabletodoso,itisinthebestinterestofthechildorthatparty,anditis financiallyfeasibleforthepartiestomaintaintheresidenceuntilthechildis emancipatedoruntilexclusivepossessionisotherwiseterminatedbyacourt ofcompetentjurisdiction.Inmakingthisdetermination,thecourtshallfirst determineifitwouldbeinthebestinterestofthedependentchildtoremain inthemaritalhome;and,ifnot,whetherotherequitieswouldbeservedby givinganyotherpartyexclusiveuseandpossessionofthemaritalhome. (i) Theintentionaldissipation,waste,depletion,ordestructionofmarital assetsafterthefilingofthepetitionorwithin2yearspriortothefilingofthe petition. (j) Anyotherfactorsnecessarytodoequityandjusticebetweenthe parties. (2) Ifthecourtawardsacashpaymentforthepurposeofequitable distributionofmaritalassets,tobepaidinfullorininstallments,thefull amountorderedshallvestwhenthejudgmentisawardedandtheawardshall notterminateuponremarriageordeathofeitherparty,unlessotherwise agreedtobytheparties,butshallbetreatedasadebtowedfromtheobligor ortheobligorsestatetotheobligeeortheobligeesestate,unlessotherwise agreedtobytheparties. (3) Inanycontesteddissolutionactionwhereinastipulationand agreementhasnotbeenenteredandfiled,anydistributionofmaritalassetsor maritalliabilitiesshallbesupportedbyfactualfindingsinthejudgmentor orderbasedoncompetentsubstantialevidencewithreferencetothefactors enumeratedinsubsection(1).Thedistributionofallmaritalassetsandmarital liabilities,whetherequalorunequal,shallincludespecificwrittenfindingsof factastothefollowing: (a) Clearidentificationofnonmaritalassetsandownershipinterests;
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(b) Identificationofmaritalassets,includingtheindividualvaluationof significantassets,anddesignationofwhichspouseshallbeentitledtoeach asset; (c) Identificationofthemaritalliabilitiesanddesignationofwhichspouse shallberesponsibleforeachliability; (d) Anyotherfindingsnecessarytoadvisethepartiesorthereviewing courtofthetrialcourtsrationaleforthedistributionofmaritalassetsand allocationofliabilities. (4) Thejudgmentdistributingassetsshallhavetheeffectofaduly executedinstrumentofconveyance,transfer,release,oracquisitionwhichis recordedinthecountywherethepropertyislocatedwhenthejudgment,ora certifiedcopyofthejudgment,isrecordedintheofficialrecordsofthecounty inwhichthepropertyislocated. (5) Ifthecourtfindsgoodcausethatthereshouldbeaninterimpartial distributionduringthependencyofadissolutionaction,thecourtmayenter aninterimorderthatshallidentifyandvaluethemaritalandnonmarital assetsandliabilitiesmadethesubjectoftheswornmotion,setapartthose nonmaritalassetsandliabilities,andprovideforapartialdistributionofthose maritalassetsandliabilities.Aninterimordermaybeenteredatanytime afterthedatethedissolutionofmarriageisfiledandservedandbeforethe finaldistributionofmaritalandnonmaritalassetsandmaritalandnonmarital liabilities. (a) Suchaninterimordershallbeenteredonlyupongoodcauseshown anduponswornmotionestablishingspecificfactualbasisforthemotion.The motionmaybefiledbyeitherpartyandshalldemonstrategoodcausewhy themattershouldnotbedeferreduntilthefinalhearing. (b) Thecourtshallspecificallytakeintoaccountandgiveappropriate creditforanypartialdistributionofmaritalassetsorliabilitiesinitsfinal allocationofmaritalassetsorliabilities.Further,thecourtshallmakespecific findingsinanyinterimorderunderthissectionthatanypartialdistribution willnotcauseinequityorprejudicetoeitherpartyastoeitherpartysclaims forsupportorattorneysfees.
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(c) Anyinterimorderpartiallydistributingmaritalassetsorliabilitiesas providedinthissubsectionshallbepursuanttoandcomportwiththefactors insubsections(1)and(3)assuchfactorspertaintotheassetsorliabilities madethesubjectoftheswornmotion. (d) Asusedinthissubsection,thetermgoodcausemeans extraordinarycircumstancesthatrequireaninterimpartialdistribution. (6) Asusedinthissection: (a)1. Maritalassetsandliabilitiesinclude: a. Assetsacquiredandliabilitiesincurredduringthemarriage, individuallybyeitherspouseorjointlybythem. b. Theenhancementinvalueandappreciationofnonmaritalassets resultingeitherfromtheeffortsofeitherpartyduringthemarriageorfrom thecontributiontoorexpenditurethereonofmaritalfundsorotherformsof maritalassets,orboth. c. Interspousalgiftsduringthemarriage. d. Allvestedandnonvestedbenefits,rights,andfundsaccruedduring themarriageinretirement,pension,profitsharing,annuity,deferred compensation,andinsuranceplansandprograms. 2. Allrealpropertyheldbythepartiesastenantsbytheentireties, whetheracquiredpriortoorduringthemarriage,shallbepresumedtobea maritalasset.If,inanycase,apartymakesaclaimtothecontrary,theburden ofproofshallbeonthepartyassertingtheclaimthatthesubjectproperty,or someportionthereof,isnonmarital. 3. Allpersonalpropertytitledjointlybythepartiesastenantsbythe entireties,whetheracquiredpriortoorduringthemarriage,shallbe presumedtobeamaritalasset.Intheeventapartymakesaclaimtothe contrary,theburdenofproofshallbeonthepartyassertingtheclaimthatthe subjectproperty,orsomeportionthereof,isnonmarital. 4. Theburdenofprooftoovercomethegiftpresumptionshallbebyclear andconvincingevidence. (b) Nonmaritalassetsandliabilitiesinclude:
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1. Assetsacquiredandliabilitiesincurredbyeitherpartypriortothe marriage,andassetsacquiredandliabilitiesincurredinexchangeforsuch assetsandliabilities; 2. Assetsacquiredseparatelybyeitherpartybynoninterspousalgift, bequest,devise,ordescent,andassetsacquiredinexchangeforsuchassets; 3. Allincomederivedfromnonmaritalassetsduringthemarriageunless theincomewastreated,used,orrelieduponbythepartiesasamaritalasset; 4. Assetsandliabilitiesexcludedfrommaritalassetsandliabilitiesby validwrittenagreementoftheparties,andassetsacquiredandliabilities incurredinexchangeforsuchassetsandliabilities;and 5. Anyliabilityincurredbyforgeryorunauthorizedsignatureofone spousesigningthenameoftheotherspouse.Anysuchliabilityshallbea nonmaritalliabilityonlyofthepartyhavingcommittedtheforgeryorhaving affixedtheunauthorizedsignature.Indetermininganawardofattorneys feesandcostspursuanttos.61.16,thecourtmayconsiderforgeryoran unauthorizedsignaturebyapartyandmaymakeaseparateawardfor attorneysfeesandcostsoccasionedbytheforgeryorunauthorizedsignature. Thissubparagraphdoesnotapplytoanyforgedorunauthorizedsignature thatwassubsequentlyratifiedbytheotherspouse. (7) Thecutoffdatefordeterminingassetsandliabilitiestobeidentified orclassifiedasmaritalassetsandliabilitiesistheearliestofthedatethe partiesenterintoavalidseparationagreement,suchotherdateasmaybe expresslyestablishedbysuchagreement,orthedateofthefilingofapetition fordissolutionofmarriage.Thedatefordeterminingvalueofassetsandthe amountofliabilitiesidentifiedorclassifiedasmaritalisthedateordatesas thejudgedeterminesisjustandequitableunderthecircumstances.Different assetsmaybevaluedasofdifferentdates,as,inthejudgesdiscretion,the circumstancesrequire. (8) Allassetsacquiredandliabilitiesincurredbyeitherspousesubsequent tothedateofthemarriageandnotspecificallyestablishedasnonmarital assetsorliabilitiesarepresumedtobemaritalassetsandliabilities.Such presumptionisovercomebyashowingthattheassetsandliabilitiesare
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nonmaritalassetsandliabilities.Thepresumptionisonlyforevidentiary purposesinthedissolutionproceedinganddoesnotvesttitle.Titleto disputedassetsshallvestonlybythejudgmentofacourt.Thissectiondoes notrequirethejoinderofspousesintheconveyance,transfer,or hypothecationofaspousesindividualproperty;affectthelawsofdescent anddistribution;orestablishcommunitypropertyinthisstate. (9) Thecourtmayprovideforequitabledistributionofthemaritalassets andliabilitieswithoutregardtoalimonyforeitherparty.Afterthe determinationofanequitabledistributionofthemaritalassetsandliabilities, thecourtshallconsiderwhetherajudgmentforalimonyshallbemade. (10) Todoequitybetweentheparties,thecourtmay,inlieuoforto supplement,facilitate,oreffectuatetheequitabledivisionofmaritalassets andliabilities,orderamonetarypaymentinalumpsumorininstallments paidoverafixedperiodoftime. (11) Specialequityisabolished.Allclaimsformerlyidentifiedasspecial equity,andallspecialequitycalculations,areabolishedandshallbeasserted eitherasaclaimforunequaldistributionofmaritalpropertyandresolvedby thefactorssetforthinsubsection(1)orasaclaimofenhancementinvalueor appreciationofnonmaritalproperty. History.s.1,ch.8898;s.2,ch.91246;s.3,ch.93188;s.1,ch.94204;s.1, ch.96305;s.1,ch.2002244;s.1,ch.200846. 61.076 Distributionofretirementplansupondissolutionofmarriage. (1) Allvestedandnonvestedbenefits,rights,andfundsaccruedduring themarriageinretirement,pension,profitsharing,annuity,deferred compensation,andinsuranceplansandprogramsaremaritalassetssubjectto equitabledistribution. (2) Ifthepartiesweremarriedforatleast10years,duringwhichatleast oneofthepartieswhowasamemberofthefederaluniformedservices performedatleast10yearsofcreditableservice,andifthedivisionofmarital propertyincludesadivisionofuniformedservicesretiredorretainerpay,the finaljudgmentshallincludethefollowing:
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(a) Sufficientinformationtoidentifythememberoftheuniformed services; (b) CertificationthattheServicemembersCivilReliefActwasobservedif thedecreewasissuedwhilethememberwasonactivedutyandwasnot representedincourt; (c) Aspecificationoftheamountofretiredorretainerpaytobe distributedpursuanttotheorder,expressedindollarsorasapercentageof thedisposableretiredorretainerpay. (3) Anorderwhichprovidesfordistributionofretiredorretainerpay fromthefederaluniformedservicesshallnotprovideforpaymentfromthis sourcemorefrequentlythanmonthlyandshallnotrequirethepayortovary normalpayanddisbursementcyclesforretiredorretainerpayinorderto complywiththeorder. History.s.3,ch.8898;s.5,ch.20075. 61.077 Determinationofentitlementtosetoffsorcreditsuponsaleof maritalhome. Apartyisnotentitledtoanycreditsorsetoffsuponthesale ofthemaritalhomeunlessthepartiessettlementagreement,finaljudgment ofdissolutionofmarriage,orfinaljudgmentequitablydistributingassetsor debtsspecificallyprovidesthatcertaincreditsorsetoffsareallowedorgiven atthetimeofthesale.Intheabsenceofasettlementagreementinvolvingthe maritalhome,thecourtshallconsiderthefollowingfactorsbefore determiningtheissueofcreditsorsetoffsinitsfinaljudgment: (1) Whetherexclusiveuseandpossessionofthemaritalhomeisbeing awarded,andthebasisfortheaward; (2) Whetheralimonyisbeingawardedtothepartyinpossessionand whetherthealimonyisbeingawardedtocover,inpartorotherwise,the mortgageandtaxesandotherexpensesofandinconnectionwiththemarital home; (3) Whetherchildsupportisbeingawardedtothepartyinpossessionand whetherthechildsupportisbeingawardedtocover,inpartorotherwise,the mortgageandtaxesandotherexpensesofandinconnectionwiththemarital home;
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(4) Thevaluetothepartyinpossessionoftheuseandoccupancyofthe maritalhome; (5) Thevalueofthelossofuseandoccupancyofthemaritalhometothe partyoutofpossession; (6) Whichpartywillbeentitledtoclaimthemortgageinterestpayments, realpropertytaxpayments,andrelatedpaymentsinconnectionwiththe maritalhomeastaxdeductionsforfederalincometaxpurposes; (7) Whetheroneorbothpartieswillexperienceacapitalgainstaxable eventasaresultofthesaleofthemaritalhome;and (8) Anyotherfactornecessarytobringaboutequityandjusticebetween theparties. History.s.1,ch.97249. 61.079 Premaritalagreements. (1) SHORTTITLE.ThissectionmaybecitedastheUniformPremarital AgreementActandthissectionappliesonlytoproceedingsunderthe FloridaFamilyLawRulesofProcedure. (2) DEFINITIONS.Asusedinthissection,theterm: (a) Premaritalagreementmeansanagreementbetweenprospective spousesmadeincontemplationofmarriageandtobeeffectiveupon marriage. (b) Propertyincludes,butisnotlimitedto,aninterest,presentor future,legalorequitable,vestedorcontingent,inrealorpersonalproperty, tangibleorintangible,includingincomeandearnings,bothactiveand passive. (3) FORMALITIES.Apremaritalagreementmustbeinwritingand signedbybothparties.Itisenforceablewithoutconsiderationotherthanthe marriageitself. (4) CONTENT. (a) Partiestoapremaritalagreementmaycontractwithrespectto: 1. Therightsandobligationsofeachofthepartiesinanyoftheproperty ofeitherorbothofthemwheneverandwhereveracquiredorlocated;
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2. Therighttobuy,sell,use,transfer,exchange,abandon,lease,consume, expend,assign,createasecurityinterestin,mortgage,encumber,disposeof, orotherwisemanageandcontrolproperty; 3. Thedispositionofpropertyuponseparation,maritaldissolution,death, ortheoccurrenceornonoccurrenceofanyotherevent; 4. Theestablishment,modification,waiver,oreliminationofspousal support; 5. Themakingofawill,trust,orotherarrangementtocarryoutthe provisionsoftheagreement; 6. Theownershiprightsinanddispositionofthedeathbenefitfromalife insurancepolicy; 7. Thechoiceoflawgoverningtheconstructionoftheagreement;and 8. Anyothermatter,includingtheirpersonalrightsandobligations,notin violationofeitherthepublicpolicyofthisstateoralawimposingacriminal penalty. (b) Therightofachildtosupportmaynotbeadverselyaffectedbya premaritalagreement. (5) EFFECTOFMARRIAGE.Apremaritalagreementbecomeseffective uponmarriageoftheparties. (6) AMENDMENT;REVOCATIONORABANDONMENT.After marriage,apremaritalagreementmaybeamended,revoked,orabandoned onlybyawrittenagreementsignedbytheparties.Theamendedagreement, revocation,orabandonmentisenforceablewithoutconsideration. (7) ENFORCEMENT. (a) Apremaritalagreementisnotenforceableinanactionproceeding undertheFloridaFamilyLawRulesofProcedureifthepartyagainstwhom enforcementissoughtprovesthat: 1. Thepartydidnotexecutetheagreementvoluntarily; 2. Theagreementwastheproductoffraud,duress,coercion,or overreaching;or 3. Theagreementwasunconscionablewhenitwasexecutedand,before executionoftheagreement,thatparty:
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a. Wasnotprovidedafairandreasonabledisclosureofthepropertyor financialobligationsoftheotherparty; b. Didnotvoluntarilyandexpresslywaive,inwriting,anyrightto disclosureofthepropertyorfinancialobligationsoftheotherpartybeyond thedisclosureprovided;and c. Didnothave,orreasonablycouldnothavehad,anadequate knowledgeofthepropertyorfinancialobligationsoftheotherparty. (b) Ifaprovisionofapremaritalagreementmodifiesoreliminates spousalsupportandthatmodificationoreliminationcausesonepartytothe agreementtobeeligibleforsupportunderaprogramofpublicassistanceat thetimeofseparationormaritaldissolution,acourt,notwithstandingthe termsoftheagreement,mayrequiretheotherpartytoprovidesupporttothe extentnecessarytoavoidthateligibility. (c) Anissueofunconscionabilityofapremaritalagreementshallbe decidedbythecourtasamatteroflaw. (8) ENFORCEMENT;VOIDMARRIAGE.Ifamarriageisdeterminedto bevoid,anagreementthatwouldotherwisehavebeenapremarital agreementisenforceableonlytotheextentnecessarytoavoidaninequitable result. (9) LIMITATIONOFACTIONS.Anystatuteoflimitationsapplicableto anactionassertingaclaimforreliefunderapremaritalagreementistolled duringthemarriageofthepartiestotheagreement.However,equitable defenseslimitingthetimeforenforcement,includinglachesandestoppel,are availabletoeitherparty. (10) APPLICATIONTOPROBATECODE.Thissectiondoesnotalter theconstruction,interpretation,orrequiredformalitiesof,ortherightsor obligationsunder,agreementsbetweenspousesunders.732.701ors.732.702. History.s.1,ch.2007171.
1
61.08 Alimony. (1) Inaproceedingfordissolutionofmarriage,thecourtmaygrant
alimonytoeitherparty,whichalimonymaybebridgethegap,rehabilitative, durational,orpermanentinnatureoranycombinationoftheseformsof
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alimony.Inanyawardofalimony,thecourtmayorderperiodicpaymentsor paymentsinlumpsumorboth.Thecourtmayconsidertheadulteryofeither spouseandthecircumstancesthereofindeterminingtheamountofalimony, ifany,tobeawarded.Inalldissolutionactions,thecourtshallinclude findingsoffactrelativetothefactorsenumeratedinsubsection(2)supporting anawardordenialofalimony. (2) Indeterminingwhethertoawardalimonyormaintenance,thecourt shallfirstmakeaspecificfactualdeterminationastowhethereitherpartyhas anactualneedforalimonyormaintenanceandwhethereitherpartyhasthe abilitytopayalimonyormaintenance.Ifthecourtfindsthatapartyhasa needforalimonyormaintenanceandthattheotherpartyhastheabilityto payalimonyormaintenance,thenindeterminingthepropertypeand amountofalimonyormaintenanceundersubsections(5)(8),thecourtshall considerallrelevantfactors,including,butnotlimitedto: (a) Thestandardoflivingestablishedduringthemarriage. (b) Thedurationofthemarriage. (c) Theageandthephysicalandemotionalconditionofeachparty. (d) Thefinancialresourcesofeachparty,includingthenonmaritaland themaritalassetsandliabilitiesdistributedtoeach. (e) Theearningcapacities,educationallevels,vocationalskills,and employabilityofthepartiesand,whenapplicable,thetimenecessaryfor eitherpartytoacquiresufficienteducationortrainingtoenablesuchpartyto findappropriateemployment. (f) Thecontributionofeachpartytothemarriage,including,butnot limitedto,servicesrenderedinhomemaking,childcare,education,andcareer buildingoftheotherparty. (g) Theresponsibilitieseachpartywillhavewithregardtoanyminor childrentheyhaveincommon. (h) Thetaxtreatmentandconsequencestobothpartiesofanyalimony award,includingthedesignationofalloraportionofthepaymentasa nontaxable,nondeductiblepayment.
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(i) Allsourcesofincomeavailabletoeitherparty,includingincome availabletoeitherpartythroughinvestmentsofanyassetheldbythatparty. (j) Anyotherfactornecessarytodoequityandjusticebetweentheparties. (3) Totheextentnecessarytoprotectanawardofalimony,thecourtmay orderanypartywhoisorderedtopayalimonytopurchaseormaintainalife insurancepolicyorabond,ortootherwisesecuresuchalimonyawardwith anyotherassetswhichmaybesuitableforthatpurpose. (4) Forpurposesofdeterminingalimony,thereisarebuttable presumptionthatashorttermmarriageisamarriagehavingadurationof lessthan7years,amoderatetermmarriageisamarriagehavingadurationof greaterthan7yearsbutlessthan17years,andlongtermmarriageisa marriagehavingadurationof17yearsorgreater.Thelengthofamarriageis theperiodoftimefromthedateofmarriageuntilthedateoffilingofan actionfordissolutionofmarriage. (5) Bridgethegapalimonymaybeawardedtoassistapartybyproviding supporttoallowthepartytomakeatransitionfrombeingmarriedtobeing single.Bridgethegapalimonyisdesignedtoassistapartywithlegitimate identifiableshorttermneeds,andthelengthofanawardmaynotexceed2 years.Anawardofbridgethegapalimonyterminatesuponthedeathof eitherpartyorupontheremarriageofthepartyreceivingalimony.Anaward ofbridgethegapalimonyshallnotbemodifiableinamountorduration. (6)(a) Rehabilitativealimonymaybeawardedtoassistapartyin establishingthecapacityforselfsupportthrougheither: 1. Theredevelopmentofpreviousskillsorcredentials;or 2. Theacquisitionofeducation,training,orworkexperiencenecessaryto developappropriateemploymentskillsorcredentials. (b) Inordertoawardrehabilitativealimony,theremustbeaspecificand definedrehabilitativeplanwhichshallbeincludedasapartofanyorder awardingrehabilitativealimony. (c) Anawardofrehabilitativealimonymaybemodifiedorterminatedin accordancewiths.61.14baseduponasubstantialchangeincircumstances,
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uponnoncompliancewiththerehabilitativeplan,oruponcompletionofthe rehabilitativeplan. (7) Durationalalimonymaybeawardedwhenpermanentperiodic alimonyisinappropriate.Thepurposeofdurationalalimonyistoprovidea partywitheconomicassistanceforasetperiodoftimefollowingamarriage ofshortormoderatedurationorfollowingamarriageoflongdurationif thereisnoongoingneedforsupportonapermanentbasis.Anawardof durationalalimonyterminatesuponthedeathofeitherpartyoruponthe remarriageofthepartyreceivingalimony.Theamountofanawardof durationalalimonymaybemodifiedorterminatedbaseduponasubstantial changeincircumstancesinaccordancewiths.61.14.However,thelengthof anawardofdurationalalimonymaynotbemodifiedexceptunder exceptionalcircumstancesandmaynotexceedthelengthofthemarriage. (8) Permanentalimonymaybeawardedtoprovidefortheneedsand necessitiesoflifeastheywereestablishedduringthemarriageoftheparties forapartywholacksthefinancialabilitytomeethisorherneedsand necessitiesoflifefollowingadissolutionofmarriage.Permanentalimonymay beawardedfollowingamarriageoflongdurationifsuchanawardis appropriateuponconsiderationofthefactorssetforthinsubsection(2), followingamarriageofmoderatedurationifsuchanawardisappropriate baseduponclearandconvincingevidenceafterconsiderationofthefactors setforthinsubsection(2),orfollowingamarriageofshortdurationifthere arewrittenfindingsofexceptionalcircumstances.Inawardingpermanent alimony,thecourtshallincludeafindingthatnootherformofalimonyisfair andreasonableunderthecircumstancesoftheparties.Anawardof permanentalimonyterminatesuponthedeathofeitherpartyoruponthe remarriageofthepartyreceivingalimony.Anawardmaybemodifiedor terminatedbaseduponasubstantialchangeincircumstancesoruponthe existenceofasupportiverelationshipinaccordancewiths.61.14. (9) Theawardofalimonymaynotleavethepayorwithsignificantlyless netincomethanthenetincomeoftherecipientunlesstherearewritten findingsofexceptionalcircumstances.
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(10)(a) Withrespecttoanyorderrequiringthepaymentofalimony enteredonorafterJanuary1,1985,unlesstheprovisionsofparagraph(c)or paragraph(d)apply,thecourtshalldirectintheorderthatthepaymentsof alimonybemadethroughtheappropriatedepositoryasprovidedins.61.181. (b) Withrespecttoanyorderrequiringthepaymentofalimonyentered beforeJanuary1,1985,uponthesubsequentappearance,onorafterthatdate, ofoneorbothpartiesbeforethecourthavingjurisdictionforthepurposeof modifyingorenforcingtheorderorinanyotherproceedingrelatedtothe order,orupontheapplicationofeitherparty,unlesstheprovisionsof paragraph(c)orparagraph(d)apply,thecourtshallmodifythetermsofthe orderasnecessarytodirectthatpaymentsofalimonybemadethroughthe appropriatedepositoryasprovidedins.61.181. (c) Ifthereisnominorchild,alimonypaymentsneednotbedirected throughthedepository. (d)1. Ifthereisaminorchildofthepartiesandbothpartiessorequest,the courtmayorderthatalimonypaymentsneednotbedirectedthroughthe depository.Inthiscase,theorderofsupportshallprovide,orbedeemedto provide,thateitherpartymaysubsequentlyapplytothedepositorytorequire thatpaymentsbemadethroughthedepository.Thecourtshallprovidea copyoftheordertothedepository. 2. Iftheprovisionsofsubparagraph1.apply,eitherpartymay subsequentlyfilewiththedepositoryanaffidavitallegingdefaultor arrearagesinpaymentandstatingthatthepartywishestoinitiate participationinthedepositoryprogram.Thepartyshallprovidecopiesofthe affidavittothecourtandtheotherpartyorparties.Fifteendaysafterreceipt oftheaffidavit,thedepositoryshallnotifyallpartiesthatfuturepayments shallbedirectedtothedepository. 3. InIVDcases,theIVDagencyshallhavethesamerightsastheobligee inrequestingthatpaymentsbemadethroughthedepository. History.ss.7,12,Oct.31,1828;RS1484;GS1932;RGS3195;CGL4987;s. 1,ch.23894,1947;s.1,ch.63145;s.16,ch.67254;s.10,ch.71241;s.1,ch.78
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339;s.1,ch.84110;s.115,ch.86220;s.2.ch.8898;s.3,ch.91246;s.1,ch. 2010199;s.79,ch.201192.
1
Note. Section80,ch.201192,providesthat[e]ffectiveJuly1,2011,the
amendmentstos.61.08,FloridaStatutes,madebythisactapplytoallinitial awardsofalimonyenteredafterJuly1,2011,andtoallmodificationsof alimonyofsuchawardsmadeafterJuly1,2011.Suchamendmentsmaynot serveasabasistomodifyawardsenteredbeforeJuly1,2011,orasabasisto changeamountsordurationofawardsexistingbeforeJuly1,2011.The amendmentstos.61.08,FloridaStatutes,madebythisactareapplicabletoall casespendingonorfiledafterJuly1,2011. Note. Formers.65.08. 61.09 Alimonyandchildsupportunconnectedwithdissolution. Ifa personhavingtheabilitytocontributetothemaintenanceofhisorherspouse andsupportofhisorherminorchildfailstodoso,thespousewhoisnot receivingsupportmayapplytothecourtforalimonyandforsupportforthe childwithoutseekingdissolutionofmarriage,andthecourtshallenteran orderasitdeemsjustandproper. History.ss.1,2,ch.3581,1885;RS1485;GS1933;RGS3196;CGL4988;s. 2,ch.29737,1955;s.1,ch.65498;s.16,ch.67254;s.11,ch.71241;s.116,ch. 86220;s.320,ch.95147;s.4,ch.200861. Note. Formers.65.09. 61.10 Adjudicationofobligationtosupportspouseorminorchild unconnectedwithdissolution;parentingplan. Exceptwhenreliefis affordedbysomeotherpendingcivilactionorproceeding,aspouseresiding inthisstateapartfromhisorherspouseandminorchild,whetherornotsuch separationisthroughhisorherfault,mayobtainanadjudicationofobligation tomaintainthespouseandminorchild,ifany.Thecourtshalladjudicatehis orherfinancialobligationstothespouseandchildandshallestablishthe parentingplanfortheparties.Suchanactiondoesnotprecludeeitherparty frommaintaininganyotherproceedingunderthischapterforotheror additionalreliefatanytime.
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History.s.1,ch.61112;s.16,ch.67254;s.12,ch.71241;s.117,ch.86220; s.321,ch.95147;s.5,ch.200861. Note. Formers.65.101. 61.11 Writs. (1) Wheneitherpartyisabouttoremovehimselforherselforhisorher propertyoutofthestate,orfraudulentlyconveyorconcealit,thecourtmay awardaneexeatorinjunctionagainstthepartyorthepropertyandmake suchordersaswillsecurealimonyorsupporttothepartywhoshould receiveit. (2)(a) Whenthecourtissuesawritofbodilyattachmentinconnection withacourtorderedsupportobligation,thewritorattachmenttothewrit mustinclude,ataminimum,suchinformationontherespondentsphysical descriptionandlocationasisrequiredforentryofthewritintotheFlorida CrimeInformationCentertelecommunicationssystemandauthorizationfor theassessmentandcollectionoftheactualcostsassociatedwiththeserviceof thewritandtransportationoftherespondentincompliancethereof.Thewrit shalldirectthatserviceandexecutionofthewritmaybemadeonanydayof theweekandanytimeofthedayornight. (b) Theclerkofthecourtshallforwardacopyofthewritforservicetothe sheriffofthecountyinwhichthewritisissued. (c) Uponreceiptofawritfromtheclerkofthecourt,thesheriffshallenter theinformationonanyunservedwritintotheFloridaCrimeInformation Centertelecommunicationssystemtomaketheinformationavailabletoother lawenforcementagencieswithinthestate.Thewritshallbeenforceableinall countiesofthestate. (d) Uponreceiptofthepurgepayment,thereceivingagencyshallprovide thesubjectwithawrittenreceiptacknowledgingsuchpayment,whichmust becarriedonthepersonoftherespondentforaperiodofatleast30daysfrom thedateofpaymentasproofofsuchpayment.Asheriffreceivingsuch paymentshallforwardthefundstothesheriffwhoenteredtheinformation aboutthewritintotheFloridaCrimeInformationCentertelecommunications systemandwhoshallforwardthefundstotheappropriateclerkofcourt.
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(e) Afterawritismodified,purged,recalled,terminated,orotherwise renderedineffectivebyrulingofthecourt,theclerkofthecourtshallnotify thesheriffreceivingtheoriginalwrit.Thatagencyshallmodifyorcancelthe entryintheFloridaCrimeInformationCentertelecommunicationssystemin accordancewithsuchnotification. History.s.13,Oct.31,1828;RS1487;GS1935;RGS3198;CGL4990;s.16, ch.67254;s.13,ch.71241;s.2,ch.92138;s.322,ch.95147;s.52,ch.96175;s. 1,ch.96190;s.3,ch.2001158. Note. Formers.65.11. 61.12 Attachmentorgarnishmentofamountsdueforalimonyorchild support. (1) Somuchasthecourtordersofthemoneyorotherthingsduetoany personorpublicofficer,stateorcounty,whethertheheadofafamilyresiding inthisstateornot,whenthemoneyorotherthingisdueforthepersonal labororserviceofthepersonorotherwise,issubjecttoattachmentor garnishmenttoenforceandsatisfytheordersandjudgmentsofthecourtof thisstateforalimony,suitmoney,orchildsupport,orotherordersin proceedingsfordissolution,alimony,orchildsupport;whenthemoneyor otherthingsoughttobeattachedorgarnisheedisthesalaryofapublic officer,stateorcounty,thewritofattachmentorgarnishmentshallbeserved onthepublicofficerwhosedutyitistopaythesalary,whoshallobeythewrit asprovidedbylawinothercases.Itisthedutyoftheofficertonotifythe publicofficerwhosedutyitistoauditorissueawarrantforthesalarysought tobeattachedimmediatelyuponserviceofthewrit.Awarrantforasmuchof thesalaryasisorderedheldunderthewritshallnotissueexceptpursuantto courtorderunlessthewritisdissolved.Nomoreofthesalaryshallbe retainedbyvirtueofthewritthanisprovidedforintheorder. (2) Theprovisionsofchapter77oranyotherprovisionoflawtothe contrarynotwithstanding,thecourtmayissueacontinuingwritof garnishmenttoanemployertoenforcetheorderofthecourtforperiodic paymentofalimonyorchildsupportorboth.Thewritmayprovidethatthe salaryofanypersonhavingadutyofsupportpursuanttosuchorderbe
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garnisheedonaperiodicandcontinuingbasisforsolongasthecourtmay determineoruntilotherwiseorderedbythecourtoracourtofcompetent jurisdictioninafurtherproceeding.Anydisciplinaryactionagainstthe employeebyanemployertowhomawritisissuedpursuanttothissection solelybecausesuchwritisineffectconstitutesacontemptofcourt,andthe courtmayentersuchorderasitdeemsjustandproper. History.s.1,ch.4973,1901;GS1937;s.10,ch.7838,1919;RGS3200;CGL 4992;s.16,ch.67254;s.14,ch.71241;s.1,ch.7726;s.1,ch.7863;s.2,ch.84 110;s.1,ch.84135. Note. Formers.65.13. 61.122 Parentingplanrecommendation;presumptionofpsychologists goodfaith;prerequisitetoparentsfilingsuit;awardoffees,costs, reimbursement. (1) Apsychologistwhohasbeenappointedbythecourttodevelopa parentingplanrecommendationinadissolutionofmarriage,acaseof domesticviolence,orapaternitymatterinvolvingtherelationshipofachild andaparent,includingtimesharingofchildren,ispresumedtobeactingin goodfaithifthepsychologistsrecommendationhasbeenreachedunder standardsthatareasonablepsychologistwouldusetodevelopaparenting planrecommendation. (2) Anadministrativecomplaintagainstacourtappointedpsychologist whichrelatestoaparentingplanrecommendationconductedbythe psychologistmaynotbefiledanonymously.Theindividualwhofilesan administrativecomplaintmustincludeinthecomplainthisorhername, address,andtelephonenumber. (3) Aparentwhodesirestofilealegalactionagainstacourtappointed psychologistwhohasactedingoodfaithindevelopingaparentingplan recommendationmustpetitionthejudgewhopresidedoverthedissolutionof marriage,caseofdomesticviolence,orpaternitymatterinvolvingthe relationshipofachildandaparent,includingtimesharingofchildren,to appointanotherpsychologist.Upontheparentsshowingofgoodcause,the courtshallappointanotherpsychologist.Thecourtshalldeterminewhois
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responsibleforallcourtcostsandattorneysfeesassociatedwithmakingsuch anappointment. (4) Ifalegalaction,whetheritbeacivilaction,acriminalaction,oran administrativeproceeding,isfiledagainstacourtappointedpsychologistina dissolutionofmarriage,caseofdomesticviolence,orpaternitymatter involvingtherelationshipofachildandaparent,includingtimesharingof children,theclaimantisresponsibleforallreasonablecostsandreasonable attorneysfeesassociatedwiththeactionforbothpartiesifthepsychologistis heldnotliable.Ifthepsychologistisheldliableincivilcourt,thepsychologist mustpayallreasonablecostsandreasonableattorneysfeesfortheclaimant. History.s.1,ch.2003112;s.7,ch.200861;s.4,ch.200921. 61.125 Parentingcoordination. (1) PURPOSE.Thepurposeofparentingcoordinationistoprovidea childfocusedalternativedisputeresolutionprocesswherebyaparenting coordinatorassiststheparentsincreatingorimplementingaparentingplan byfacilitatingtheresolutionofdisputesbetweentheparentsbyproviding education,makingrecommendations,and,withthepriorapprovalofthe parentsandthecourt,makinglimiteddecisionswithinthescopeofthecourts orderofreferral. (2) REFERRAL.Inanyactioninwhichajudgmentororderhasbeen soughtorenteredadopting,establishing,ormodifyingaparentingplan, exceptforadomesticviolenceproceedingunderchapter741,andupon agreementoftheparties,thecourtsownmotion,orthemotionofaparty,the courtmayappointaparentingcoordinatorandreferthepartiestoparenting coordinationtoassistintheresolutionofdisputesconcerningtheirparenting plan. (3) DOMESTICVIOLENCEISSUES. (a) Iftherehasbeenahistoryofdomesticviolence,thecourtmaynotrefer thepartiestoparentingcoordinationunlessbothparentsconsent.Thecourt shalloffereachpartyanopportunitytoconsultwithanattorneyordomestic violenceadvocatebeforeacceptingthepartysconsent.Thecourtmust
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determinewhethereachpartysconsenthasbeengivenfreelyand voluntarily. (b) Indeterminingwhethertherehasbeenahistoryofdomesticviolence, thecourtshallconsiderwhetherapartyhascommittedanactofdomestic violenceasdefineds.741.28,orchildabuseasdefinedins.39.01,againstthe otherpartyoranymemberoftheotherpartysfamily;engagedinapatternof behaviorsthatexertpowerandcontrolovertheotherpartyandthatmay compromisetheotherpartysabilitytonegotiateafairresult;orengagedin behaviorthatleadstheotherpartytohavereasonablecausetobelieveheor sheisinimminentdangerofbecomingavictimofdomesticviolence.The courtshallconsiderandevaluateallrelevantfactors,including,butnot limitedto,thefactorslistedins.741.30(6)(b). (c) Ifthereisahistoryofdomesticviolence,thecourtshallorder safeguardstoprotectthesafetyoftheparticipants,including,butnotlimited to,adherencetoallprovisionsofaninjunctionforprotectionorconditionsof bail,probation,orasentencearisingfromcriminalproceedings. (4) QUALIFICATIONSOFAPARENTINGCOORDINATOR.A parentingcoordinatorisanimpartialthirdpersonwhoseroleistoassistthe parentsinsuccessfullycreatingorimplementingaparentingplan.Unless thereisawrittenagreementbetweentheparties,thecourtmayappointonlya qualifiedparentingcoordinator. (a) Tobequalified,aparentingcoordinatormust: 1. Meetoneofthefollowingprofessionalrequirements: a. Belicensedasamentalhealthprofessionalunderchapter490or chapter491. b. Belicensedasaphysicianunderchapter458,withcertificationbythe AmericanBoardofPsychiatryandNeurology. c. BecertifiedbytheFloridaSupremeCourtasafamilylawmediator, withatleastamastersdegreeinamentalhealthfield. d. BeamemberingoodstandingofTheFloridaBar. 2. Completeallofthefollowing: a. Threeyearsofpostlicensureorpostcertificationpractice.
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b. AfamilymediationtrainingprogramcertifiedbytheFloridaSupreme Court. c. Aminimumof24hoursofparentingcoordinationtraininginparenting coordinationconceptsandethics,familysystemstheoryandapplication, familydynamicsinseparationanddivorce,childandadolescent development,theparentingcoordinationprocess,parentingcoordination techniques,andFloridafamilylawandprocedure,andaminimumof4hours oftrainingindomesticviolenceandchildabusewhichisrelatedtoparenting coordination. (b) Thecourtmayrequireadditionalqualificationstoaddressissues specifictotheparties. (c) Aqualifiedparentingcoordinatormustbeingoodstanding,orinclear andactivestatus,withhisorherrespectivelicensingauthority,certification board,orboth,asapplicable. (5) DISQUALIFICATIONSOFPARENTINGCOORDINATOR. (a) Thecourtmaynotappointapersontoserveasparentingcoordinator who,inanyjurisdiction: 1. Hasbeenconvictedorhadadjudicationwithheldonachargeofchild abuse,childneglect,domesticviolence,parentalkidnapping,orinterference withcustody; 2. Hasbeenfoundbyacourtinachildprotectionhearingtohaveabused, neglected,orabandonedachild; 3. Hasconsentedtoanadjudicationorawithholdingofadjudicationona petitionfordependency;or 4. Isorhasbeenarespondentinafinalorderorinjunctionofprotection againstdomesticviolence. (b) Aparentingcoordinatormustdiscontinueserviceasaparenting coordinatorandimmediatelyreporttothecourtandthepartiesifanyofthe disqualifyingcircumstancesdescribedinparagraph(a)occur,orifheorshe nolongermeetstheminimumqualificationsinsubsection(4),andthecourt mayappointanotherparentingcoordinator.
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(6) FEESFORPARENTINGCOORDINATION.Thecourtshall determinetheallocationoffeesandcostsforparentingcoordinationbetween theparties.Thecourtmaynotorderthepartiestoparentingcoordination withouttheirconsentunlessitdeterminesthatthepartieshavethefinancial abilitytopaytheparentingcoordinationfeesandcosts. (a) Indeterminingifanonindigentpartyhasthefinancialabilitytopay theparentingcoordinationfeesandcosts,thecourtshallconsiderthepartys financialcircumstances,includingincome,assets,liabilities,financial obligations,resources,andwhetherpayingthefeesandcostswouldcreatea substantialhardship. (b) Ifapartyisfoundtobeindigentbaseduponthefactorsins.57.082, thecourtmaynotorderthepartytoparentingcoordinationunlesspublic fundsareavailabletopaytheindigentpartysallocatedportionofthefees andcostsorthenonindigentpartyconsentstopayingallofthefeesandcosts. (7) CONFIDENTIALITY.Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinthissection, allcommunicationsmadeby,between,oramongthepartiesandthe parentingcoordinatorduringparentingcoordinationsessionsare confidential.Theparentingcoordinatorandeachpartydesignatedinthe orderappointingthecoordinatormaynottestifyorofferevidenceabout communicationsmadeby,between,oramongthepartiesandtheparenting coordinatorduringparentingcoordinationsessions,exceptif: (a) Necessarytoidentify,authenticate,confirm,ordenyawritten agreemententeredintobythepartiesduringparentingcoordination; (b) Thetestimonyorevidenceisnecessarytoidentifyanissuefor resolutionbythecourtwithoutotherwisedisclosingcommunicationsmade byanypartyortheparentingcoordinator; (c) Thetestimonyorevidenceislimitedtothesubjectofapartys compliancewiththeorderofreferraltoparentingcoordination,ordersfor psychologicalevaluation,counselingorderedbythecourtorrecommended byahealthcareprovider,orforsubstanceabusetestingortreatment; (d) Theparentingcoordinatorreportsthatthecaseisnolonger appropriateforparentingcoordination;
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(e) Theparentingcoordinatorisreportingthatheorsheisunableor unwillingtocontinuetoserveandthatasuccessorparentingcoordinator shouldbeappointed; (f) Thetestimonyorevidenceisnecessarypursuanttoparagraph(5)(b)or subsection(8); (g) Theparentingcoordinatorisnotqualifiedtoaddressorresolvecertain issuesinthecaseandamorequalifiedcoordinatorshouldbeappointed; (h) Thepartiesagreethatthetestimonyorevidencebepermitted;or (i) Thetestimonyorevidenceisnecessarytoprotectanypersonfrom futureactsthatwouldconstitutedomesticviolenceunderchapter741;child abuse,neglect,orabandonmentunderchapter39;orabuse,neglect,or exploitationofanelderlyordisabledadultunderchapter825. (8) REPORTOFEMERGENCYTOCOURT. (a) Aparentingcoordinatormustimmediatelyinformthecourtby affidavitorverifiedreportwithoutnoticetothepartiesofanemergency situationif: 1. Thereisareasonablecausetosuspectthatachildwillsufferoris sufferingabuse,neglect,orabandonmentasprovidedunderchapter39; 2. Thereisareasonablecausetosuspectavulnerableadulthasbeenoris beingabused,neglected,orexploitedasprovidedunderchapter415; 3. Aparty,orsomeoneactingonapartysbehalf,isexpectedto wrongfullyremoveoriswrongfullyremovingthechildfromthejurisdiction ofthecourtwithoutpriorcourtapprovalorcompliancewiththe requirementsofs.61.13001.Iftheparentingcoordinatorsuspectsthatthe parenthasrelocatedwithinthestatetoavoiddomesticviolence,the coordinatormaynotdisclosethelocationoftheparentandchildunless requiredbycourtorder. (b) Uponsuchinformationandbelief,aparentingcoordinatorshall immediatelyinformthecourtbyaffidavitorverifiedreportandserveacopy oneachpartyofanemergencyinwhichapartyobtainsafinalorderor injunctionofprotectionagainstdomesticviolenceorisarrestedforanactof domesticviolenceasprovidedunderchapter741.
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(9) LIMITATIONONLIABILITY.Aparentingcoordinatorappointedby thecourtisnotliableforcivildamagesforanyactoromissioninthescopeof hisorherdutiespursuanttoanorderofreferralunlesssuchpersonactedin badfaithorwithmaliciouspurposeorinamannerexhibitingwantonand willfuldisregardfortherights,safety,orpropertyoftheparties. History.s.2,ch.2009180. 61.13 Supportofchildren;parentingandtimesharing;powersofcourt. (1)(a) Inaproceedingunderthischapter,thecourtmayatanytimeorder eitherorbothparentswhooweadutyofsupporttoachildtopaysupportto theotherparentor,inthecaseofbothparents,toathirdpartywhohas custodyinaccordancewiththechildsupportguidelinesscheduleins.61.30. 1. Allchildsupportordersandincomedeductionordersenteredonor afterOctober1,2010,mustprovide: a. Forchildsupporttoterminateonachilds18thbirthdayunlessthe courtfindsorpreviouslyfoundthats.743.07(2)applies,orisotherwise agreedtobytheparties; b. Aschedule,basedontherecordexistingatthetimeoftheorder,stating theamountofthemonthlychildsupportobligationforalltheminorchildren atthetimeoftheorderandtheamountofchildsupportthatwillbeowedfor anyremainingchildrenafteroneormoreofthechildrenarenolonger entitledtoreceivechildsupport;and c. Themonth,day,andyearthatthereductionorterminationofchild supportbecomeseffective. 2. Thecourtinitiallyenteringanorderrequiringoneorbothparentsto makechildsupportpaymentshascontinuingjurisdictionaftertheentryofthe initialordertomodifytheamountandtermsandconditionsofthechild supportpaymentsifthemodificationisfoundbythecourttobeinthebest interestsofthechild;whenthechildreachesmajority;ifthereisasubstantial changeinthecircumstancesoftheparties;ifs.743.07(2)applies;orwhena childisemancipated,marries,joinsthearmedservices,ordies.Thecourt initiallyenteringachildsupportorderhascontinuingjurisdictiontorequire
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theobligeetoreporttothecourtontermsprescribedbythecourtregarding thedispositionofthechildsupportpayments. (b) Eachorderforsupportshallcontainaprovisionforhealthinsurance fortheminorchildwhenhealthinsuranceisreasonableincostandaccessible tothechild.Healthinsuranceispresumedtobereasonableincostifthe incrementalcostofaddinghealthinsuranceforthechildorchildrendoesnot exceed5percentofthegrossincome,asdefinedins.61.30,oftheparent responsibleforprovidinghealthinsurance.Healthinsuranceisaccessibleto thechildifthehealthinsuranceisavailabletobeusedinthecountyofthe childsprimaryresidenceorinanothercountyiftheparentwhohasthemost timeunderthetimesharingplanagrees.Ifthetimesharingplanprovidesfor equaltimesharing,healthinsuranceisaccessibletothechildifthehealth insuranceisavailabletobeusedineithercountywherethechildresidesorin anothercountyifbothparentsagree.Thecourtmayrequiretheobligorto providehealthinsuranceortoreimbursetheobligeeforthecostofhealth insurancefortheminorchildwheninsuranceisprovidedbytheobligee.The presumptionofreasonablecostmayberebuttedbyevidenceofanyofthe factorsins.61.30(11)(a).Thecourtmaydeviatefromwhatispresumed reasonableincostonlyuponawrittenfindingexplainingitsdetermination whyorderingornotorderingtheprovisionofhealthinsuranceorthe reimbursementoftheobligeescostforprovidinghealthinsuranceforthe minorchildwouldbeunjustorinappropriate.Inanyevent,thecourtshall apportionthecostofhealthinsurance,andanynoncoveredmedical,dental, andprescriptionmedicationexpensesofthechild,tobothpartiesbyadding thecosttothebasicobligationdeterminedpursuanttos.61.30(6).Thecourt mayorderthatpaymentofnoncoveredmedical,dental,andprescription medicationexpensesoftheminorchildbemadedirectlytotheobligeeona percentagebasis.Inaproceedingformedicalsupportonly,eachparents shareofthechildsnoncoveredmedicalexpensesshallequaltheparents percentageshareofthecombinednetincomeoftheparents.Thepercentage shareshallbecalculatedbydividingeachparentsnetmonthlyincomebythe
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combinedmonthlynetincomeofbothparents.Netincomeiscalculatedas specifiedbys.61.30(3)and(4). 1. InanonTitleIVDcase,acopyofthecourtorderforhealthinsurance shallbeservedontheobligorsunionoremployerbytheobligeewhenthe followingconditionsaremet: a. Theobligorfailstoprovidewrittenprooftotheobligeewithin30days afterreceivingeffectivenoticeofthecourtorderthatthehealthinsurancehas beenobtainedorthatapplicationforhealthinsurancehasbeenmade; b. Theobligeeserveswrittennoticeofintenttoenforceanorderforhealth insuranceontheobligorbymailattheobligorslastknownaddress;and c. Theobligorfailswithin15daysafterthemailingofthenoticeto providewrittenprooftotheobligeethatthehealthinsuranceexistedasofthe dateofmailing. 2.a. AsupportorderenforcedunderTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityAct whichrequiresthattheobligorprovidehealthinsuranceisenforceablebythe departmentthroughtheuseofthenationalmedicalsupportnotice,andan amendmenttothesupportorderisnotrequired.Thedepartmentshall transferthenationalmedicalsupportnoticetotheobligorsunionor employer.Thedepartmentshallnotifytheobligorinwritingthatthenotice hasbeensenttotheobligorsunionoremployer,andthewrittennotification mustincludetheobligorsrightsanddutiesunderthenationalmedical supportnotice.Theobligormaycontestthewithholdingrequiredbythe nationalmedicalsupportnoticebasedonamistakeoffact.Tocontestthe withholding,theobligormustfileawrittennoticeofcontestwiththe departmentwithin15businessdaysafterthedatetheobligorreceiveswritten notificationofthenationalmedicalsupportnoticefromthedepartment.Filing withthedepartmentiscompletewhenthenoticeisreceivedbytheperson designatedbythedepartmentinthewrittennotification.Thenoticeofcontest mustbeintheformprescribedbythedepartment.Uponthetimelyfilingofa noticeofcontest,thedepartmentshall,within5businessdays,schedulean informalconferencewiththeobligortodiscusstheobligorsfactualdispute.If theinformalconferenceresolvesthedisputetotheobligorssatisfactionorif
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theobligorfailstoattendtheinformalconference,thenoticeofcontestis deemedwithdrawn.Iftheinformalconferencedoesnotresolvethedispute, theobligormayrequestanadministrativehearingunderchapter120within5 businessdaysaftertheterminationoftheinformalconference,inaformand mannerprescribedbythedepartment.However,thefilingofanoticeof contestbytheobligordoesnotdelaythewithholdingofpremiumpayments bytheunion,employer,orhealthplanadministrator.Theunion,employer,or healthplanadministratormustimplementthewithholdingasdirectedbythe nationalmedicalsupportnoticeunlessnotifiedbythedepartmentthatthe nationalmedicalsupportnoticeisterminated. b. InaTitleIVDcase,thedepartmentshallnotifyanobligorsunionor employeriftheobligationtoprovidehealthinsurancethroughthatunionor employeristerminated. 3. InanonTitleIVDcase,uponreceiptoftheorderpursuantto subparagraph1.,oruponapplicationoftheobligorpursuanttotheorder,the unionoremployershallenrolltheminorchildasabeneficiaryinthegroup healthplanregardlessofanyrestrictionsontheenrollmentperiodand withholdanyrequiredpremiumfromtheobligorsincome.Ifmorethanone planisofferedbytheunionoremployer,thechildshallbeenrolledinthe grouphealthplaninwhichtheobligorisenrolled. 4.a. Uponreceiptofthenationalmedicalsupportnoticeunder subparagraph2.inaTitleIVDcase,theunionoremployershalltransferthe noticetotheappropriategrouphealthplanadministratorwithin20business daysafterthedateonthenotice.Theplanadministratormustenrollthechild asabeneficiaryinthegrouphealthplanregardlessofanyrestrictionsonthe enrollmentperiod,andtheunionoremployermustwithholdanyrequired premiumfromtheobligorsincomeuponnotificationbytheplan administratorthatthechildisenrolled.Thechildshallbeenrolledinthe grouphealthplaninwhichtheobligorisenrolled.Ifthegrouphealthplanin whichtheobligorisenrolledisnotavailablewherethechildresidesorifthe obligorisnotenrolledingroupcoverage,thechildshallbeenrolledinthe lowestcostgrouphealthplanthatisaccessibletothechild.
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b. IfhealthinsuranceortheobligorsemploymentisterminatedinaTitle IVDcase,theunionoremployerthatiswithholdingpremiumsforhealth insuranceunderanationalmedicalsupportnoticemustnotifythe departmentwithin20daysaftertheterminationandprovidetheobligorslast knownaddressandthenameandaddressoftheobligorsnewemployer,if known. 5.a. Theamountwithheldbyaunionoremployerincompliancewitha supportordermaynotexceedtheamountallowedunders.303(b)ofthe ConsumerCreditProtectionAct,15U.S.C.s.1673(b),asamended.Theunion oremployershallwithholdthemaximumallowedbytheConsumerCredit ProtectionActinthefollowingorder: (I) Currentsupport,asordered. (II) Premiumpaymentsforhealthinsurance,asordered. (III) Pastduesupport,asordered. (IV) Othermedicalsupportorinsurance,asordered. b. Ifthecombinedamounttobewithheldforcurrentsupportplusthe premiumpaymentforhealthinsuranceexceedtheamountallowedunderthe ConsumerCreditProtectionAct,andthehealthinsurancecannotbeobtained unlessthefullamountofthepremiumispaid,theunionoremployermaynot withholdthepremiumpayment.However,theunionoremployershall withholdthemaximumallowedinthefollowingorder: (I) Currentsupport,asordered. (II) Pastduesupport,asordered. (III) Othermedicalsupportorinsurance,asordered. 6. Anemployer,union,orplanadministratorwhodoesnotcomplywith therequirementsinsubsubparagraph4.a.issubjecttoacivilpenaltynotto exceed$250forthefirstviolationand$500forsubsequentviolations,plus attorneysfeesandcosts.Thedepartmentmayfileapetitionincircuitcourtto enforcetherequirementsofthissubparagraph. 7. Thedepartmentmayadoptrulestoadministerthechildsupport enforcementprovisionsofthissectionthataffectTitleIVDcases.
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(c) Totheextentnecessarytoprotectanawardofchildsupport,thecourt mayordertheobligortopurchaseormaintainalifeinsurancepolicyora bond,ortootherwisesecurethechildsupportawardwithanyotherassets whichmaybesuitableforthatpurpose. (d)1. Allchildsupportordersshallprovidethefullnameanddateofbirth ofeachminorchildwhoisthesubjectofthechildsupportorder. 2. Ifbothpartiesrequestandthecourtfindsthatitisinthebestinterestof thechild,supportpaymentsneednotbesubjecttoimmediateincome deduction.Supportordersthatarenotsubjecttoimmediateincomededuction maybedirectedthroughthedepositoryunders.61.181ormadepayable directlytotheobligee.Paymentsmadebyimmediateincomedeductionshall bemadetotheStateDisbursementUnit.Thecourtshallprovideacopyofthe ordertothedepository. 3. Forsupportorderspayabledirectlytotheobligee,anyparty,orthe departmentinaIVDcase,maysubsequentlyfileanaffidavitwiththe depositoryallegingadefaultinpaymentofchildsupportandstatingthatthe partywishestorequirethatpaymentsbemadethroughthedepository.The partyshallprovidecopiesoftheaffidavittothecourtandtoeachotherparty. Fifteendaysafterreceiptoftheaffidavit,thedepositoryshallnotifyallparties thatfuturepaymentsshallbepaidthroughthedepository,exceptthatincome deductionpaymentsshallbemadetotheStateDisbursementUnit. (2)(a) Thecourtmayapprove,grant,ormodifyaparentingplan, notwithstandingthatthechildisnotphysicallypresentinthisstateatthe timeoffilinganyproceedingunderthischapter,ifitappearstothecourtthat thechildwasremovedfromthisstatefortheprimarypurposeofremoving thechildfromthecourtsjurisdictioninanattempttoavoidthecourts approval,creation,ormodificationofaparentingplan. (b) Aparentingplanapprovedbythecourtmust,ataminimum,describe inadequatedetailhowtheparentswillshareandberesponsibleforthedaily tasksassociatedwiththeupbringingofthechild;thetimesharingschedule arrangementsthatspecifythetimethattheminorchildwillspendwitheach parent;adesignationofwhowillberesponsibleforanyandallformsof
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healthcare,schoolrelatedmattersincludingtheaddresstobeusedforschool boundarydeterminationandregistration,andotheractivities;andthe methodsandtechnologiesthattheparentswillusetocommunicatewiththe child. (c) Thecourtshalldetermineallmattersrelatingtoparentingandtime sharingofeachminorchildofthepartiesinaccordancewiththebestinterests ofthechildandinaccordancewiththeUniformChildCustodyJurisdiction andEnforcementAct,exceptthatmodificationofaparentingplanandtime sharingschedulerequiresashowingofasubstantial,material,and unanticipatedchangeofcircumstances. 1. Itisthepublicpolicyofthisstatethateachminorchildhasfrequent andcontinuingcontactwithbothparentsaftertheparentsseparateorthe marriageofthepartiesisdissolvedandtoencourageparentstosharethe rightsandresponsibilities,andjoys,ofchildrearing.Thereisnopresumption fororagainstthefatherormotherofthechildorfororagainstanyspecific timesharingschedulewhencreatingormodifyingtheparentingplanofthe child. 2. Thecourtshallorderthattheparentalresponsibilityforaminorchild besharedbybothparentsunlessthecourtfindsthatsharedparental responsibilitywouldbedetrimentaltothechild.Evidencethataparenthas beenconvictedofamisdemeanorofthefirstdegreeorhigherinvolving domesticviolence,asdefinedins.741.28andchapter775,ormeetsthecriteria ofs.39.806(1)(d),createsarebuttablepresumptionofdetrimenttothechild.If thepresumptionisnotrebuttedaftertheconvictedparentisadvisedbythe courtthatthepresumptionexists,sharedparentalresponsibility,including timesharingwiththechild,anddecisionsmaderegardingthechild,maynot begrantedtotheconvictedparent.However,theconvictedparentisnot relievedofanyobligationtoprovidefinancialsupport.Ifthecourtdetermines thatsharedparentalresponsibilitywouldbedetrimentaltothechild,itmay ordersoleparentalresponsibilityandmakesucharrangementsfortime sharingasspecifiedintheparentingplanaswillbestprotectthechildor abusedspousefromfurtherharm.Whetherornotthereisaconvictionofany
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offenseofdomesticviolenceorchildabuseortheexistenceofaninjunction forprotectionagainstdomesticviolence,thecourtshallconsiderevidenceof domesticviolenceorchildabuseasevidenceofdetrimenttothechild. a. Inorderingsharedparentalresponsibility,thecourtmayconsiderthe expresseddesiresoftheparentsandmaygranttoonepartytheultimate responsibilityoverspecificaspectsofthechildswelfareormaydividethose responsibilitiesbetweenthepartiesbasedonthebestinterestsofthechild. Areasofresponsibilitymayincludeeducation,healthcare,andanyother responsibilitiesthatthecourtfindsuniquetoaparticularfamily. b. Thecourtshallordersoleparentalresponsibilityforaminorchildto oneparent,withorwithouttimesharingwiththeotherparentifitisinthe bestinterestsoftheminorchild. 3. Accesstorecordsandinformationpertainingtoaminorchild, including,butnotlimitedto,medical,dental,andschoolrecords,maynotbe deniedtoeitherparent.Fullrightsunderthissubparagraphapplytoeither parentunlessacourtorderspecificallyrevokestheserights,includingany restrictionsontheserightsasprovidedinadomesticviolenceinjunction.A parenthavingrightsunderthissubparagraphhasthesamerightsupon requestastoform,substance,andmannerofaccessasareavailabletothe otherparentofachild,including,withoutlimitation,therighttoinperson communicationwithmedical,dental,andeducationproviders. (d) Thecircuitcourtinthecountyinwhicheitherparentandthechild resideorthecircuitcourtinwhichtheoriginalorderapprovingorcreating theparentingplanwasenteredmaymodifytheparentingplan.Thecourt maychangethevenueinaccordancewiths.47.122. (3) Forpurposesofestablishingormodifyingparentalresponsibilityand creating,developing,approving,ormodifyingaparentingplan,includinga timesharingschedule,whichgovernseachparentsrelationshipwithhisor herminorchildandtherelationshipbetweeneachparentwithregardtohis orherminorchild,thebestinterestofthechildshallbetheprimary consideration.Adeterminationofparentalresponsibility,aparentingplan,or atimesharingschedulemaynotbemodifiedwithoutashowingofa
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substantial,material,andunanticipatedchangeincircumstancesanda determinationthatthemodificationisinthebestinterestsofthechild. Determinationofthebestinterestsofthechildshallbemadebyevaluatingall ofthefactorsaffectingthewelfareandinterestsoftheparticularminorchild andthecircumstancesofthatfamily,including,butnotlimitedto: (a) Thedemonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparenttofacilitate andencourageacloseandcontinuingparentchildrelationship,tohonorthe timesharingschedule,andtobereasonablewhenchangesarerequired. (b) Theanticipateddivisionofparentalresponsibilitiesafterthelitigation, includingtheextenttowhichparentalresponsibilitieswillbedelegatedto thirdparties. (c) Thedemonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparentto determine,consider,andactupontheneedsofthechildasopposedtothe needsordesiresoftheparent. (d) Thelengthoftimethechildhaslivedinastable,satisfactory environmentandthedesirabilityofmaintainingcontinuity. (e) Thegeographicviabilityoftheparentingplan,withspecialattention paidtotheneedsofschoolagechildrenandtheamountoftimetobespent travelingtoeffectuatetheparentingplan.Thisfactordoesnotcreatea presumptionfororagainstrelocationofeitherparentwithachild. (f) Themoralfitnessoftheparents. (g) Thementalandphysicalhealthoftheparents. (h) Thehome,school,andcommunityrecordofthechild. (i) Thereasonablepreferenceofthechild,ifthecourtdeemsthechildto beofsufficientintelligence,understanding,andexperiencetoexpressa preference. (j) Thedemonstratedknowledge,capacity,anddispositionofeachparent tobeinformedofthecircumstancesoftheminorchild,including,butnot limitedto,thechildsfriends,teachers,medicalcareproviders,dailyactivities, andfavoritethings.
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(k) Thedemonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparenttoprovidea consistentroutineforthechild,suchasdiscipline,anddailyschedulesfor homework,meals,andbedtime. (l) Thedemonstratedcapacityofeachparenttocommunicatewithand keeptheotherparentinformedofissuesandactivitiesregardingtheminor child,andthewillingnessofeachparenttoadoptaunifiedfrontonallmajor issueswhendealingwiththechild. (m) Evidenceofdomesticviolence,sexualviolence,childabuse,child abandonment,orchildneglect,regardlessofwhetherapriororpending actionrelatingtothoseissueshasbeenbrought.Ifthecourtacceptsevidence ofpriororpendingactionsregardingdomesticviolence,sexualviolence,child abuse,childabandonment,orchildneglect,thecourtmustspecifically acknowledgeinwritingthatsuchevidencewasconsideredwhenevaluating thebestinterestsofthechild. (n) Evidencethateitherparenthasknowinglyprovidedfalseinformation tothecourtregardinganypriororpendingactionregardingdomestic violence,sexualviolence,childabuse,childabandonment,orchildneglect. (o) Theparticularparentingtaskscustomarilyperformedbyeachparent andthedivisionofparentalresponsibilitiesbeforetheinstitutionoflitigation andduringthependinglitigation,includingtheextenttowhichparenting responsibilitieswereundertakenbythirdparties. (p) Thedemonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparentto participateandbeinvolvedinthechildsschoolandextracurricularactivities. (q) Thedemonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparenttomaintain anenvironmentforthechildwhichisfreefromsubstanceabuse. (r) Thecapacityanddispositionofeachparenttoprotectthechildfrom theongoinglitigationasdemonstratedbynotdiscussingthelitigationwith thechild,notsharingdocumentsorelectronicmediarelatedtothelitigation withthechild,andrefrainingfromdisparagingcommentsabouttheother parenttothechild.
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(s) Thedevelopmentalstagesandneedsofthechildandthe demonstratedcapacityanddispositionofeachparenttomeetthechilds developmentalneeds. (t) Anyotherfactorthatisrelevanttothedeterminationofaspecific parentingplan,includingthetimesharingschedule. (4)(a) Whenaparentwhoisorderedtopaychildsupportoralimonyfails topaychildsupportoralimony,theparentwhoshouldhavereceivedthe childsupportoralimonymaynotrefusetohonorthetimesharingschedule presentlyineffectbetweentheparents. (b) Whenaparentrefusestohonortheotherparentsrightsunderthe timesharingschedule,theparentwhosetimesharingrightswereviolated shallcontinuetopayanyorderedchildsupportoralimony. (c) Whenaparentrefusestohonorthetimesharingscheduleinthe parentingplanwithoutpropercause,thecourt: 1. Shall,aftercalculatingtheamountoftimesharingimproperlydenied, awardtheparentdeniedtimeasufficientamountofextratimesharingto compensateforthetimesharingmissed,andsuchtimesharingshallbe orderedasexpeditiouslyaspossibleinamannerconsistentwiththebest interestsofthechildandscheduledinamannerthatisconvenientforthe parentdeprivedoftimesharing.Inorderinganymakeuptimesharing,the courtshallschedulesuchtimesharinginamannerthatisconsistentwiththe bestinterestsofthechildorchildrenandthatisconvenientforthe nonoffendingparentandattheexpenseofthenoncompliantparent. 2. Mayordertheparentwhodidnotprovidetimesharingordidnot properlyexercisetimesharingunderthetimesharingscheduletopay reasonablecourtcostsandattorneysfeesincurredbythenonoffending parenttoenforcethetimesharingschedule. 3. Mayordertheparentwhodidnotprovidetimesharingordidnot properlyexercisetimesharingunderthetimesharingscheduletoattenda parentingcourseapprovedbythejudicialcircuit.
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4. Mayordertheparentwhodidnotprovidetimesharingordidnot properlyexercisetimesharingunderthetimesharingscheduletodo communityserviceiftheorderwillnotinterferewiththewelfareofthechild. 5. Mayordertheparentwhodidnotprovidetimesharingordidnot properlyexercisetimesharingunderthetimesharingscheduletohavethe financialburdenofpromotingfrequentandcontinuingcontactwhenthat parentandchildresidefurtherthan60milesfromtheotherparent. 6. May,upontherequestoftheparentwhodidnotviolatethetime sharingschedule,modifytheparentingplanifmodificationisinthebest interestsofthechild. 7. Mayimposeanyotherreasonablesanctionasaresultof noncompliance. (d) Apersonwhoviolatesthissubsectionmaybepunishedbycontempt ofcourtorotherremediesasthecourtdeemsappropriate. (5) Thecourtmaymakespecificordersregardingtheparentingplanand timesharingscheduleassuchordersrelatetothecircumstancesoftheparties andthenatureofthecaseandareequitableandprovideforchildsupportin accordancewiththeguidelinesscheduleins.61.30.Anorderforequaltime sharingforaminorchilddoesnotprecludethecourtfromenteringanorder forchildsupportofthechild. (6) Inanyproceedingunderthissection,thecourtmaynotdenyshared parentalresponsibilityandtimesharingrightstoaparentsolelybecausethat parentisorisbelievedtobeinfectedwithhumanimmunodeficiencyvirus, butthecourtmay,inanorderapprovingtheparentingplan,requirethat parenttoobservemeasuresapprovedbytheCentersforDiseaseControland PreventionoftheUnitedStatesPublicHealthServiceorbytheDepartmentof Healthforpreventingthespreadofhumanimmunodeficiencyvirustothe child. (7) (a) Eachpartytoanypaternityorsupportproceedingisrequiredto filewiththetribunalasdefinedins.88.1011(22)andStateCaseRegistryupon entryofanorder,andtoupdateasappropriate,informationonlocationand identityoftheparty,includingsocialsecuritynumber,residentialandmailing
1
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addresses,telephonenumber,driverslicensenumber,andname,address, andtelephonenumberofemployer.Eachpartytoanypaternityorchild supportproceedinginanonTitleIVDcaseshallmeettheabove requirementsforupdatingthetribunalandStateCaseRegistry. (b) PursuanttothefederalPersonalResponsibilityandWorkOpportunity ReconciliationActof1996,eachpartyisrequiredtoprovidehisorhersocial securitynumberinaccordancewiththissection.Disclosureofsocialsecurity numbersobtainedthroughthisrequirementshallbelimitedtothepurposeof administrationoftheTitleIVDprogramforchildsupportenforcement. (c) InanysubsequentTitleIVDchildsupportenforcementaction betweentheparties,uponsufficientshowingthatdiligentefforthasbeen madetoascertainthelocationofsuchaparty,thecourtofcompetent jurisdictionshalldeemstatedueprocessrequirementsfornoticeandservice ofprocesstobemetwithrespecttotheparty,upondeliveryofwrittennotice tothemostrecentresidentialoremployeraddressfiledwiththetribunaland StateCaseRegistrypursuanttoparagraph(a).InanysubsequentnonTitleIV Dchildsupportenforcementactionbetweentheparties,thesame requirementsforserviceshallapply. (8) Atthetimeanorderforchildsupportisentered,eachpartyis requiredtoprovidehisorhersocialsecuritynumberanddateofbirthtothe court,aswellasthename,dateofbirth,andsocialsecuritynumberofeach minorchildthatisthesubjectofsuchchildsupportorder.Pursuanttothe federalPersonalResponsibilityandWorkOpportunityReconciliationActof 1996,eachpartyisrequiredtoprovidehisorhersocialsecuritynumberin accordancewiththissection.Allsocialsecuritynumbersrequiredbythis sectionshallbeprovidedbythepartiesandmaintainedbythedepositoryasa separateattachmentinthefile.Disclosureofsocialsecuritynumbersobtained throughthisrequirementshallbelimitedtothepurposeofadministrationof theTitleIVDprogramforchildsupportenforcement. History.s.7,Oct.31,1828;RS1489;GS1938;RGS3201;CGL4993;s.16, ch.67254;s.15,ch.71241;s.1,ch.7567;s.1,ch.7599;s.26,ch.77433;s.1, ch.785;s.18,ch.79164;ss.1,4,ch.8296;s.3,ch.84110;s.1,ch.84152;s.
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118,ch.86220;s.1,ch.8795;s.4,ch.88176;s.1,ch.89183;s.1,ch.89350;s. 4,ch.91246;s.4,ch.93188;s.1,ch.93208;s.1,ch.93236;s.9,ch.94134;s.9, ch.94135;s.14,ch.95222;s.5,ch.96183;s.2,ch.96305;s.24,ch.9795;s.3, ch.97155;s.3,ch.97170;s.4,ch.97226;s.1,ch.97242;s.8,ch.98397;s.122, ch.98403;s.3,ch.998;s.2,ch.99375;s.7,ch.2000151;s.1,ch.20012;s.4, ch.2001158;s.3,ch.200265;s.2,ch.2002173;s.2,ch.20035;s.2,ch.2004 334;s.1,ch.200539;s.1,ch.200582;s.7,ch.2005239;s.1,ch.2006245;s.8, ch.200861;s.2,ch.200990;s.3,ch.2009180;s.1,ch.2010187;s.3,ch.2010 199;s.76,ch.201192.

1
Note. Section81,ch.201192,providesthat[e]xceptasotherwise
expresslyprovidedinthisact,thisactshalltakeeffectupontheearlierof90 daysfollowingCongressamending42U.S.C.s.666(f)toalloworrequire statestoadoptthe2008versionoftheUniformInterstateFamilySupportAct, or90daysfollowingthestateobtainingawaiverofitsstateplanrequirement underTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityAct.Section76,ch.201192,amended paragraph(7)(a),toread: (a) Eachpartytoanypaternityorsupportproceedingisrequiredtofile withthetribunalasdefinedins.88.1011andStateCaseRegistryuponentry of an order, and to update as appropriate, information on location and identityoftheparty,includingsocialsecuritynumber,residentialandmailing addresses, telephone number, drivers license number, and name, address, and telephone number of employer. Each party to any paternity or child support proceeding in a nonTitle IVD case shall meet the above requirementsforupdatingthetribunalandStateCaseRegistry. Note. Formers.65.14. 61.13001 Parentalrelocationwithachild. (1) DEFINITIONS.Asusedinthissection,theterm: (a) Childmeansanypersonwhoisunderthejurisdictionofastate courtpursuanttotheUniformChildCustodyJurisdictionandEnforcement Actoristhesubjectofanyordergrantingtoaparentorotherpersonany righttotimesharing,residentialcare,kinship,orcustody,asprovidedunder statelaw.
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(b) Courtmeansthecircuitcourtinanoriginalproceedingwhichhas propervenueandjurisdictioninaccordancewiththeUniformChildCustody JurisdictionandEnforcementAct,thecircuitcourtinthecountyinwhich eitherparentandthechildreside,orthecircuitcourtinwhichtheoriginal actionwasadjudicated. (c) Otherpersonmeansanindividualwhoisnottheparent,butwith whomthechildresidespursuanttocourtorder,orwhohastherightofaccess to,timesharingwith,orvisitationwiththechild. (d) Parentmeansanypersonsonamedbycourtorderorexpress writtenagreementwhoissubjecttocourtenforcementorapersonreflectedas aparentonabirthcertificateandwhoisentitledtoaccesstoortimesharing withthechild. (e) Relocationmeansachangeinthelocationoftheprincipalresidence ofaparentorotherpersonfromhisorherprincipalplaceofresidenceatthe timeofthelastorderestablishingormodifyingtimesharing,oratthetimeof filingthependingactiontoestablishormodifytimesharing.Thechangeof locationmustbeatleast50milesfromthatresidence,andforatleast60 consecutivedaysnotincludingatemporaryabsencefromtheprincipal residenceforpurposesofvacation,education,ortheprovisionofhealthcare forthechild. (2) RELOCATIONBYAGREEMENT. (a) Iftheparentsandeveryotherpersonentitledtoaccesstoortime sharingwiththechildagreetotherelocationofthechild,theymaysatisfythe requirementsofthissectionbysigningawrittenagreementthat: 1. Reflectsconsenttotherelocation; 2. Definesanaccessortimesharingscheduleforthenonrelocatingparent andanyotherpersonswhoareentitledtoaccessortimesharing;and 3. Describes,ifnecessary,anytransportationarrangementsrelatedto accessortimesharing. (b) Ifthereisanexistingcauseofaction,judgment,ordecreeofrecord pertainingtothechildsresidenceoratimesharingschedule,thepartiesshall seekratificationoftheagreementbycourtorderwithoutthenecessityofan
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evidentiaryhearingunlessahearingisrequested,inwriting,byoneormore ofthepartiestotheagreementwithin10daysafterthedatetheagreementis filedwiththecourt.Ifahearingisnottimelyrequested,itshallbepresumed thattherelocationisinthebestinterestofthechildandthecourtmayratify theagreementwithoutanevidentiaryhearing. (3) PETITIONTORELOCATE.Unlessanagreementhasbeenenteredas describedinsubsection(2),aparentorotherpersonseekingrelocationmust fileapetitiontorelocateandserveitupontheotherparent,andeveryother personentitledtoaccesstoortimesharingwiththechild.Thepleadingsmust beinaccordancewiththissection: (a) Thepetitiontorelocatemustbesignedunderoathoraffirmation underpenaltyofperjuryandinclude: 1. Adescriptionofthelocationoftheintendednewresidence,including thestate,city,andspecificphysicaladdress,ifknown. 2. Themailingaddressoftheintendednewresidence,ifnotthesameas thephysicaladdress,ifknown. 3. Thehometelephonenumberoftheintendednewresidence,ifknown. 4. Thedateoftheintendedmoveorproposedrelocation. 5. Adetailedstatementofthespecificreasonsfortheproposedrelocation. Ifoneofthereasonsisbaseduponajobofferthathasbeenreducedto writing,thewrittenjoboffermustbeattachedtothepetition. 6. Aproposalfortherevisedpostrelocationscheduleforaccessandtime sharingtogetherwithaproposalforthepostrelocationtransportation arrangementsnecessarytoeffectuatetimesharingwiththechild.Absentthe existenceofacurrent,validorderabating,terminating,orrestrictingaccessor timesharingorothergoodcausepredatingthepetition,failuretocomply withthisprovisionrendersthepetitiontorelocatelegallyinsufficient. 7. Substantiallythefollowingstatement,inallcapitallettersandinthe samesizetype,orlarger,asthetypeintheremainderofthepetition: ARESPONSETOTHEPETITIONOBJECTINGTORELOCATIONMUSTBE MADEINWRITING,FILEDWITHTHECOURT,ANDSERVEDONTHE
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PARENTOROTHERPERSONSEEKINGTORELOCATEWITHIN20DAYS AFTERSERVICEOFTHISPETITIONTORELOCATE.IFYOUFAILTO TIMELYOBJECTTOTHERELOCATION,THERELOCATIONWILLBE ALLOWED,UNLESSITISNOTINTHEBESTINTERESTSOFTHECHILD, WITHOUTFURTHERNOTICEANDWITHOUTAHEARING. (b) Thepetitiontorelocatemustbeservedontheotherparentandon everyotherpersonentitledtoaccesstoandtimesharingwiththechild.If thereisapendingcourtactionregardingthechild,serviceofprocessmaybe accordingtocourtrule.Otherwise,serviceofprocessshallbeaccordingto chapters48and49orviacertifiedmail,restricteddelivery,returnreceipt requested. (c) Aparentorotherpersonseekingtorelocatehasacontinuingdutyto providecurrentandupdatedinformationrequiredbythissectionwhenthat informationbecomesknown. (d) Iftheotherparentandanyotherpersonentitledtoaccesstoortime sharingwiththechildfailstotimelyfilearesponseobjectingtothepetitionto relocate,itispresumedthattherelocationisinthebestinterestofthechild andthattherelocationshouldbeallowed,andthecourtshall,absentgood cause,enteranorderspecifyingthattheorderisenteredasaresultofthe failuretorespondtothepetitionandadoptingtheaccessandtimesharing scheduleandtransportationarrangementscontainedinthepetition.The ordermaybeissuedinanexpeditedmannerwithoutthenecessityofan evidentiaryhearing.Ifaresponseistimelyfiled,theparentorotherperson maynotrelocate,andmustproceedtoatemporaryhearingortrialandobtain courtpermissiontorelocate. (e) Relocatingthechildwithoutcomplyingwiththerequirementsofthis subsectionsubjectsthepartyinviolationtocontemptandotherproceedings tocompelthereturnofthechildandmaybetakenintoaccountbythecourt inanyinitialorpostjudgmentactionseekingadeterminationormodification oftheparentingplanortheaccessortimesharingscheduleas: 1. Afactorinmakingadeterminationregardingtherelocationofachild.
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2. Afactorindeterminingwhethertheparentingplanortheaccessor timesharingscheduleshouldbemodified. 3. Abasisfororderingthetemporaryorpermanentreturnofthechild. 4. Sufficientcausetoordertheparentorotherpersonseekingtorelocate thechildtopayreasonableexpensesandattorneysfeesincurredbytheparty objectingtotherelocation. 5. Sufficientcausefortheawardofreasonableattorneysfeesandcosts, includinginterimtravelexpensesincidenttoaccessortimesharingor securingthereturnofthechild. (4) APPLICABILITYOFPUBLICRECORDSLAW.Iftheparentorother personseekingtorelocateachild,orthechild,isentitledtopreventdisclosure oflocationinformationunderapublicrecordsexemption,thecourtmayenter anyordernecessarytomodifythedisclosurerequirementsofthissectionin compliancewiththepublicrecordsexemption. (5) OBJECTIONTORELOCATION.Ananswerobjectingtoaproposed relocationmustbeverifiedandincludethespecificfactualbasissupporting thereasonsforseekingaprohibitionoftherelocation,includingastatement oftheamountofparticipationorinvolvementtheobjectingpartycurrently hasorhashadinthelifeofthechild. (6) TEMPORARYORDER. (a) Thecourtmaygrantatemporaryorderrestrainingtherelocationofa child,orderthereturnofthechild,ifarelocationhaspreviouslytakenplace, ororderotherappropriateremedialrelief,ifthecourtfinds: 1. Thatthepetitiontorelocatedoesnotcomplywithsubsection(3); 2. Thatthechildhasbeenrelocatedwithoutawrittenagreementofthe partiesorwithoutcourtapproval;or 3. Fromanexaminationoftheevidencepresentedatthepreliminary hearingthatthereisalikelihoodthatuponfinalhearingthecourtwillnot approvetherelocationofthechild. (b) Thecourtmaygrantatemporaryorderpermittingtherelocationof thechildpendingfinalhearing,ifthecourtfinds:
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1. Thatthepetitiontorelocatewasproperlyfiledandisotherwisein compliancewithsubsection(3);and 2. Fromanexaminationoftheevidencepresentedatthepreliminary hearing,thatthereisalikelihoodthatonfinalhearingthecourtwillapprove therelocationofthechild,whichfindingsmustbesupportedbythesame factualbasisaswouldbenecessarytosupportapprovingtherelocationina finaljudgment. (c) Ifthecourthasissuedatemporaryorderauthorizingapartyseeking torelocateormoveachildbeforeafinaljudgmentisrendered,thecourtmay notgiveanyweighttothetemporaryrelocationasafactorinreachingitsfinal decision. (d) Iftemporaryrelocationofachildisapproved,thecourtmayrequire thepersonrelocatingthechildtoprovidereasonablesecurity,financialor otherwise,andguaranteethatthecourtorderedcontactwiththechildwill notbeinterruptedorinterferedwithbytherelocatingparty. (7) NOPRESUMPTION;FACTORSTODETERMINECONTESTED RELOCATION.Apresumptioninfavoroforagainstarequesttorelocate withthechilddoesnotariseifaparentorotherpersonseekstorelocateand themovewillmateriallyaffectthecurrentscheduleofcontact,access,and timesharingwiththenonrelocatingparentorotherperson.Inreachingits decisionregardingaproposedtemporaryorpermanentrelocation,thecourt shallevaluateallofthefollowing: (a) Thenature,quality,extentofinvolvement,anddurationofthechilds relationshipwiththeparentorotherpersonproposingtorelocatewiththe childandwiththenonrelocatingparent,otherpersons,siblings,halfsiblings, andothersignificantpersonsinthechildslife. (b) Theageanddevelopmentalstageofthechild,theneedsofthechild, andthelikelyimpacttherelocationwillhaveonthechildsphysical, educational,andemotionaldevelopment,takingintoconsiderationany specialneedsofthechild. (c) Thefeasibilityofpreservingtherelationshipbetweenthe nonrelocatingparentorotherpersonandthechildthroughsubstitute
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arrangementsthattakeintoconsiderationthelogisticsofcontact,access,and timesharing,aswellasthefinancialcircumstancesoftheparties;whether thosefactorsaresufficienttofosteracontinuingmeaningfulrelationship betweenthechildandthenonrelocatingparentorotherperson;andthe likelihoodofcompliancewiththesubstitutearrangementsbytherelocating parentorotherpersononceheorsheisoutofthejurisdictionofthecourt. (d) Thechildspreference,takingintoconsiderationtheageandmaturity ofthechild. (e) Whethertherelocationwillenhancethegeneralqualityoflifeforboth theparentorotherpersonseekingtherelocationandthechild,including,but notlimitedto,financialoremotionalbenefitsoreducationalopportunities. (f) Thereasonseachparentorotherpersonisseekingoropposingthe relocation. (g) Thecurrentemploymentandeconomiccircumstancesofeachparent orotherpersonandwhethertheproposedrelocationisnecessarytoimprove theeconomiccircumstancesoftheparentorotherpersonseekingrelocation ofthechild. (h) Thattherelocationissoughtingoodfaithandtheextenttowhichthe objectingparenthasfulfilledhisorherfinancialobligationstotheparentor otherpersonseekingrelocation,includingchildsupport,spousalsupport,and maritalpropertyandmaritaldebtobligations. (i) Thecareerandotheropportunitiesavailabletotheobjectingparentor otherpersoniftherelocationoccurs. (j) Ahistoryofsubstanceabuseordomesticviolenceasdefinedins. 741.28orwhichmeetsthecriteriaofs.39.806(1)(d)byeitherparent,including aconsiderationoftheseverityofsuchconductandthefailureorsuccessof anyattemptsatrehabilitation. (k) Anyotherfactoraffectingthebestinterestofthechildorassetforthin s.61.13. (8) BURDENOFPROOF.Theparentorotherpersonwishingtorelocate hastheburdenofprovingbyapreponderanceoftheevidencethatrelocation isinthebestinterestofthechild.Ifthatburdenofproofismet,theburden
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shiftstothenonrelocatingparentorotherpersontoshowbyapreponderance oftheevidencethattheproposedrelocationisnotinthebestinterestofthe child. (9) ORDERREGARDINGRELOCATION.Ifrelocationisapproved: (a) Thecourtmay,initsdiscretion,ordercontactwiththenonrelocating parentorotherperson,includingaccess,timesharing,telephone,Internet, webcam,andotherarrangementssufficienttoensurethatthechildhas frequent,continuing,andmeaningfulcontactwiththenonrelocatingparentor otherperson,ifcontactisfinanciallyaffordableandinthebestinterestofthe child. (b) Ifapplicable,thecourtshallspecifyhowthetransportationcostsareto beallocatedbetweentheparentsandotherpersonsentitledtocontact,access, andtimesharingandmayadjustthechildsupportaward,asappropriate, consideringthecostsoftransportationandtherespectivenetincomesofthe parentsinaccordancewiththestatechildsupportguidelinesschedule. (10) PRIORITYFORHEARINGORTRIAL.Anevidentiaryhearingor nonjurytrialonapleadingseekingtemporaryorpermanentrelieffiledunder thissectionshallbeaccordedpriorityonthecourtscalendar.Ifamotion seekingatemporaryrelocationisfiled,absentgoodcause,thehearingmust occurnolaterthan30daysafterthemotionforatemporaryrelocationisfiled. Ifanoticetosetthematterforanonjurytrialisfiled,absentgoodcause,the nonjurytrialmustoccurnolaterthan90daysafterthenoticeisfiled. (11) APPLICABILITY. (a) Thissectionapplies: 1. ToordersenteredbeforeOctober1,2009,iftheexistingorderdefining custody,primaryresidence,theparentingplan,timesharing,oraccesstoor withthechilddoesnotexpresslygoverntherelocationofthechild. 2. Toanorder,whethertemporaryorpermanent,regardingtheparenting plan,custody,primaryresidence,timesharing,oraccesstothechildentered onorafterOctober1,2009. 3. Toanyrelocationorproposedrelocation,whetherpermanentor temporary,ofachildduringanyproceedingpendingonOctober1,2009,
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whereintheparentingplan,custody,primaryresidence,timesharing,or accesstothechildisanissue. (b) Totheextentthataprovisionofthissectionconflictswithanorder existingonOctober1,2009,thissectiondoesnotapplytothetermsofthat orderwhichexpresslygovernrelocationofthechildorachangeinthe principalresidenceaddressofaparentorotherperson. History.s.2,ch.2006245;s.9,ch.200861;s.5,ch.200921;s.4,ch.2009 180. 61.13002 Temporarytimesharingmodificationandchildsupport modificationduetomilitaryservice. (1) Ifasupplementalpetitionoramotionformodificationoftimesharing andparentalresponsibilityisfiledbecauseaparentisactivated,deployed,or temporarilyassignedtomilitaryserviceandtheparentsabilitytocomply withtimesharingismateriallyaffectedasaresult,thecourtmaynotissuean orderormodifyoramendapreviousjudgmentororderthatchangestime sharingasitexistedonthedatetheparentwasactivated,deployed,or temporarilyassignedtomilitaryservice,exceptthatacourtmayentera temporaryordertomodifyoramendtimesharingifthereisclearand convincingevidencethatthetemporarymodificationoramendmentisinthe bestinterestsofthechild.However,aparentsactivation,deployment,or temporaryassignmenttomilitaryserviceandtheresultanttemporary disruptiontothechildmaynotbethesolefactorinacourtsdecisiontogrant apetitionforormodificationofpermanenttimesharingandparental responsibility.Whenenteringatemporaryorderunderthissection,thecourt shallconsiderandprovidefor,iffeasible,contactbetweenthemilitary servicememberandhisorherchild,including,butnotlimitedto,electronic communicationbywebcam,telephone,orotheravailablemeans.Thecourt shallalsopermitliberaltimesharingduringperiodsofleavefrommilitary service,asitisinthechildsbestintereststomaintaintheparentchildbond duringtheparentsmilitaryservice. (2) Ifaparentisactivated,deployed,ortemporarilyassignedtomilitary serviceonordersinexcessof90daysandtheparentsabilitytocomplywith
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timesharingismateriallyaffectedasaresult,theparentmaydesignatea personorpersonstoexercisetimesharingwiththechildontheparents behalf.Thedesignationshallbelimitedtoafamilymember,astepparent,ora relativeofthechildbymarriage.Thedesignationshallbemadeinwriting andprovidedtotheotherparentatleast10workingdaysbeforethecourt orderedperiodoftimesharingcommences.Theotherparentmayonlyobject totheappointmentofthedesigneeonthebasisthatthedesigneestime sharingvisitationisnotinthebestinterestsofthechild.Whenunabletoreach agreementonthedelegation,eitherparentmayrequestanexpeditedcourt hearingforadeterminationonthedesignation. (3) Theservicememberandthenonmilitaryparentshallcooperatewith eachotherinanefforttoreachamutuallyagreeableresolutionofcustody, visitation,delegationofvisitation,andchildsupport.Eachpartyshallprovide informationtotheotherpartyinanefforttofacilitateagreementoncustody, visitation,delegationofvisitation,andchildsupport.Agreementson designationofpersonstoexercisetimesharingwiththechildontheparents behalfmayalsobemadeatthetimeofdissolutionofmarriageorotherchild custodyproceedings. (4) Ifatemporaryorderisissuedunderthissection,thecourtshall reinstatethetimesharingorderpreviouslyineffectupontheservicemember parentsreturnfromactivemilitaryservice,deployment,ortemporary assignment. (5) Uponmotionofeitherparentforenforcementofrightsunderthis section,thecourtshall,forgoodcauseshown,holdanexpeditedhearingin custodyandvisitationmattersinstitutedunderthissection,andshallpermit theservicemembertotestifybytelephone,videoteleconference,webcam, affidavit,orothermeanswherethemilitarydutiesoftheservicemember parenthaveamaterialeffectontheparentsability,oranticipatedability,to appearinpersonataregularlyscheduledhearing. (6) Ifatemporaryorderisenteredunderthissection,thecourtmay addresstheissueofsupportforthechildby:
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(a) Enteringanorderoftemporarysupportfromtheservicememberto theotherparentunders.61.30; (b) Requiringtheservicemembertoenrollthechildasamilitary dependentwithDEERs,TriCare,orothersimilarbenefitsavailabletomilitary dependentsasprovidedbytheservicemembersbranchofserviceand federalregulations;or (c) Suspending,abating,orreducingthechildsupportobligationofthe nonservicememberuntilthecustodyjudgmentortimeshareorder previouslyineffectisreinstated. (7) Thissectiondoesnotapplytopermanentchangeofstationmovesby militarypersonnel,whichshallbegovernedbys.61.13001. History.s.1,ch.2007132;s.10,ch.200861;s.1,ch.201030;s.1,ch.2011 188. 61.13003 Courtorderedelectroniccommunicationbetweenaparentanda child. (1)(a) Inconnectionwithproceedingsunderthischapter,acourtmay orderelectroniccommunicationbetweenaparentandachild.Beforeordering electroniccommunication,acourtmustconsider: 1. Whetherelectroniccommunicationisinachildsbestinterests; 2. Whethercommunicationequipmentandtechnologytoprovide electroniccommunicationisreasonablyavailable,accessible,andaffordable; 3. Eachparentshistoryofsubstanceabuseordomesticviolence;and 4. Anyotherfactorthatthecourtconsidersmaterial. (b) Notwithstandingparagraph(a),arebuttablepresumptioniscreated providingthatitisinthebestinterestsofachildforaparentandchildto havereasonabletelephonecommunication.Unlessthispresumptionis rebutted,thecourtshallordertelephonecommunication. (c) Thecourtmaysetsafeguardsorguidelinesforelectronic communication. (2) Ifthecourtfindsthatoneorbothparentswillincuradditionalcostsin ordertoimplementelectroniccommunicationwiththechild,thecourtshall allocatesuchexpensesarisingsolelyfromtheelectroniccommunication
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betweentheparentsafterconsideringtherespectiveparentsfinancial circumstances. (3) Ifthecourtentersanordergrantingelectroniccommunication,each parentshallfurnishtheotherparentwiththeaccessinformationnecessaryto facilitateelectroniccommunication.Eachparentshallnotifytheotherparent ofanychangeintheaccessinformationwithin7daysafterthechange. (4) Electroniccommunicationmaybeusedonlytosupplementaparents facetofacecontactwithhisorherminorchild.Electroniccommunication maynotbeusedtoreplaceorasasubstituteforfacetofacecontact. (5) Apartytoachildcustodyorderthatdoesnotprohibitelectronic communicationmaymoveacourttoorderelectroniccommunication.Sucha partyneednotproveasubstantialchangeincircumstances. (6) Thecourtmaynotconsidertheavailabilityofelectronic communicationasthesoledeterminativefactorwhenconsideringrelocation. (7) Theextentoramountoftimethatelectroniccommunicationwiththe childisorderedunders.61.13maynotbeusedasafactorwhenthecourt calculateschildsupport. (8) Thissectiondoesnotapplytoanyjudgmentororderissuedbefore October1,2007. History.s.2,ch.2007179. 61.1301 Incomedeductionorders. (1) ISSUANCEINCONJUNCTIONWITHANORDERESTABLISHING, ENFORCING,ORMODIFYINGANOBLIGATIONFORALIMONYOR CHILDSUPPORT. (a) Upontheentryofanorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingan obligationforalimony,forchildsupport,orforalimonyandchildsupport, otherthanatemporaryorder,thecourtshallenteraseparateorderforincome deductionifonehasnotbeenentered.Upontheentryofatemporaryorder establishingsupportortheentryofatemporaryorderenforcingormodifying atemporaryorderofsupport,thecourtmayenteraseparateorderofincome deduction.Copiesoftheordersshallbeservedontheobligeeandobligor.If theorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligationdirectsthat
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paymentsbemadethroughthedepository,thecourtshallprovidetothe depositoryacopyoftheorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingthe obligation.IftheobligeeisarecipientofTitleIVDservices,thecourtshall furnishtotheTitleIVDagencyacopyoftheincomedeductionorderandthe orderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligation. 1. InTitleIVDcases,theTitleIVDagencymayimplementincome deductionafterreceivingacopyofanorderfromthecourtunderthis paragraphoraforwardingagencyunderUIFSA,URESA,orRURESAby issuinganincomedeductionnoticetothepayor. 2. Theincomedeductionnoticemuststatethatitisbaseduponavalid supportorderandthatitcontainsanincomedeductionrequirementorupon aseparateincomedeductionorder.Theincomedeductionnoticemustcontain thenoticetopayorprovisionsspecifiedbyparagraph(2)(e).Theincome deductionnoticemustcontainthefollowinginformationfromtheincome deductionorderuponwhichthenoticeisbased:thecasenumber,thecourt thatenteredtheorder,andthedateentered. 3. Payorsshalldeductsupportpaymentsfromincome,asspecifiedinthe incomedeductionnotice,inthemannerprovidedunderparagraph(2)(e). 4. InnonTitleIVDcases,theincomedeductionnoticemustbe accompaniedbyacopyofthesupportorderuponwhichthenoticeisbased. InTitleIVDcases,uponrequestofapayor,theTitleIVDagencyshall furnishthepayoracopyoftheincomedeductionorder. 5. IfasupportorderenteredbeforeJanuary1,1994,inanonTitleIVD casedoesnotspecifyincomededuction,incomedeductionmaybeinitiated uponadelinquencywithouttheneedforanyamendmenttothesupport orderoranyfurtheractionbythecourt.Insuchcasetheobligeemay implementincomedeductionbyservinganoticeofdelinquencyonthe obligorasprovidedforunderparagraph(f). (b) Theincomedeductionordershall: 1. Directapayortodeductfromallincomedueandpayabletoanobligor theamountrequiredbythecourttomeettheobligorssupportobligation
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includinganyattorneysfeesorcostsowedandforwardthedeductedamount pursuanttotheorder. 2. Statetheamountofarrearageowed,ifany,anddirectapayorto withholdanadditional20percentormoreoftheperiodicamountspecifiedin theorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligation,untilfull paymentismadeofanyarrearage,attorneysfeesandcostsowed,provided nodeductionshallbeappliedtoattorneysfeesandcostsuntilthefullamount ofanyarrearageispaid. 3. Providethatifadelinquencyaccruesaftertheorderestablishing, modifying,orenforcingtheobligationhasbeenenteredandthereisnoorder forrepaymentofthedelinquencyorapreexistingarrearage,apayorshall deductanadditional20percentofthecurrentsupportobligationorother amountagreedtobythepartiesuntilthedelinquencyandanyattorneysfees andcostsarepaidinfull.Nodeductionmaybeappliedtoattorneysfeesand costsuntilthedelinquencyispaidinfull. 4. Directapayornottodeductinexcessoftheamountsallowedunders. 303(b)oftheConsumerCreditProtectionAct,15U.S.C.s.1673(b),as amended. 5. Directwhetherapayorshalldeductall,aspecifiedportion,orno incomewhichispaidintheformofabonusorothersimilaronetime payment,uptotheamountofarrearagereportedintheincomededuction noticeortheremainingbalancethereof,andforwardthepaymenttothe governmentaldepository.Forpurposesofthissubparagraph,bonusmeans apaymentinadditiontoanobligorsusualcompensationandwhichisin additiontoanyamountscontractedfororotherwiselegallydueandshallnot includeanycommissionpaymentsdueanobligor. 6. InTitleIVDcases,directapayortoprovidetothecourtdepositorythe dateonwhicheachdeductionismade. 7. InTitleIVDcases,ifanobligationtopaycurrentsupportisreducedor terminatedduetoemancipationofachildandtheobligorowesanarrearage, retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,directthepayortocontinuethe incomedeductionattherateineffectimmediatelypriortoemancipationuntil
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allarrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,andcostsarepaidinfullor untiltheamountofwithholdingismodified. 8. Directthat,atsuchtimeastheStateDisbursementUnitbecomes operational,allpaymentsinthosecasesinwhichtheobligeeisreceivingTitle IVDservicesandinthosecasesinwhichtheobligeeisnotreceivingTitleIV Dservicesinwhichtheinitialsupportorderwasissuedinthisstateonor afterJanuary1,1994,andinwhichtheobligorschildsupportobligationis beingpaidthroughincomededuction,bemadepayabletoanddeliveredto theStateDisbursementUnit.Notwithstandinganyotherstatutoryprovision tothecontrary,fundsreceivedbytheStateDisbursementUnitshallbeheld, administered,anddisbursedbytheStateDisbursementUnitpursuanttothe provisionsofthischapter. (c) Theincomedeductionorderiseffectiveimmediatelyunlessthecourt upongoodcauseshownfindsthattheincomedeductionordershallbe effectiveuponadelinquencyinanamountspecifiedbythecourtbutnotto exceed1monthspayment,pursuanttotheorderestablishing,enforcing,or modifyingtheobligation.Inordertofindgoodcause,thecourtmustata minimummakewrittenfindingsthat: 1. Explainwhyimplementingimmediateincomedeductionwouldnotbe inthechildsbestinterest; 2. Thereisproofoftimelypaymentofthepreviouslyorderedobligation withoutanincomedeductionorderincasesofmodification;and 3.a. ThereisanagreementbytheobligortoadvisetheIVDagencyand courtdepositoryofanychangeinpayorandhealthinsurance;or b. Thereisasignedwrittenagreementprovidinganalternative arrangementbetweentheobligorandtheobligeeand,attheoptionoftheIV Dagency,bytheIVDagencyinIVDcasesinwhichthereisanassignmentof supportrightstothestate,reviewedandenteredintherecordbythecourt. (d) Theincomedeductionordershallbeeffectiveaslongastheorder uponwhichitisbasediseffectiveoruntilfurtherorderofthecourt. Notwithstandingtheforegoing,however,atsuchtimeastheState DisbursementUnitbecomesoperational,inthosecasesinwhichtheobligeeis
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receivingTitleIVDservicesandinthosecasesinwhichtheobligeeisnot receivingTitleIVDservicesinwhichtheinitialsupportorderwasissuedin thisstateonorafterJanuary1,1994,andinwhichtheobligorschildsupport obligationisbeingpaidthroughincomededuction,suchpaymentsshallbe madepayabletoanddeliveredtotheStateDisbursementUnit. (e) Whenthecourtorderstheincomedeductiontobeeffective immediately,thecourtshallfurnishtotheobligorastatementofhisorher rights,remedies,anddutiesinregardtotheincomedeductionorder.The statementshallstate: 1. Allfeesorinterestwhichshallbeimposed. 2. Thetotalamountofincometobedeductedforeachpayperioduntil thearrearage,ifany,ispaidinfullandshallstatethetotalamountofincome tobedeductedforeachpayperiodthereafter.Theamountsdeductedmaynot beinexcessofthatallowedunders.303(b)oftheConsumerCreditProtection Act,15U.S.C.s.1673(b),asamended. 3. Thattheincomedeductionorderappliestocurrentandsubsequent payorsandperiodsofemployment. 4. Thatacopyoftheincomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVDcases,the incomedeductionnoticewillbeservedontheobligorspayororpayors. 5. Thatenforcementoftheincomedeductionordermayonlybecontested onthegroundofmistakeoffactregardingtheamountowedpursuanttothe orderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligation,thearrearages,or theidentityoftheobligor,thepayor,ortheobligee. 6. Thattheobligorisrequiredtonotifytheobligeeand,whentheobligee isreceivingIVDservices,theIVDagencywithin7daysofchangesinthe obligorsaddress,payors,andtheaddressesofhisorherpayors. 7. ThatinaTitleIVDcase,ifanobligationtopaycurrentsupportis reducedorterminatedduetoemancipationofachildandtheobligorowesan arrearage,retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,incomededuction continuesattherateineffectimmediatelypriortoemancipationuntilall arrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,andcostsarepaidinfullor untiltheamountofwithholdingismodified.
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(f) IfasupportorderwasenteredbeforeJanuary1,1994,thecourtorders theincomedeductiontobeeffectiveuponadelinquencyasprovidedin paragraph(c),oradelinquencyhasaccruedunderanorderenteredbefore July1,2006,thatestablished,modified,orenforcedtheobligationandthereis noorderforrepaymentofthedelinquencyorapreexistingarrearage,the obligeeor,inTitleIVDcases,theTitleIVDagencymayenforcetheincome deductionbyservinganoticeofdelinquencyontheobligorunderthis paragraph. 1. Thenoticeofdelinquencyshallstate: a. Thetermsoftheorderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingthe obligation. b. Theperiodofdelinquencyandthetotalamountofthedelinquencyas ofthedatethenoticeismailed. c. Allfeesorinterestwhichmaybeimposed. d. Thetotalamountofincometobedeductedforeachpayperioduntil thearrearage,andallapplicablefeesandinterest,ispaidinfullandshallstate thetotalamountofincometobedeductedforeachpayperiodthereafter.The amountsdeductedmaynotbeinexcessofthatallowedunders.303(b)ofthe ConsumerCreditProtectionAct,15U.S.C.s.1673(b),asamended. e. Thattheincomedeductionorderappliestocurrentandsubsequent payorsandperiodsofemployment. f. Thatacopyofthenoticeofdelinquencywillbeservedontheobligors payororpayors,togetherwithacopyoftheincomedeductionorderor,in TitleIVDcases,theincomedeductionnotice,unlesstheobligorappliestothe courttocontestenforcementoftheincomededuction.Iftheincomededuction orderbeingenforcedwasrenderedbytheTitleIVDagencypursuanttos. 409.2563andtheobligorconteststhededuction,theobligorshallfilea petitionforanadministrativehearingwiththeTitleIVDagency.The applicationorpetitionshallbefiledwithin15daysafterthedatethenoticeof delinquencywasserved. g. Thatenforcementoftheincomedeductionordermayonlybecontested onthegroundofmistakeoffactregardingtheamountowedpursuanttothe
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orderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligation,theamountof arrearages,ortheidentityoftheobligor,thepayor,ortheobligee. h. Thattheobligorisrequiredtonotifytheobligeeoftheobligorscurrent addressandcurrentpayorsandoftheaddressofcurrentpayors.Allchanges shallbereportedbytheobligorwithin7days.IftheIVDagencyisenforcing theorder,theobligorshallmakethesenotificationstotheagencyinsteadofto theobligee. 2. Thefailureoftheobligortoreceivethenoticeofdelinquencydoesnot precludesubsequentserviceoftheincomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVD cases,theincomedeductionnoticeontheobligorspayor.Anoticeof delinquencywhichfailstostateanarrearagedoesnotmeanthatanarrearage isnotowed. (g) Atanytime,anyparty,includingtheIVDagency,mayapplytothe courtto: 1. Modify,suspend,orterminatetheincomedeductionorderin accordancewithamodification,suspension,orterminationofthesupport provisionsintheunderlyingorder;or 2. Modifytheamountofincomedeductedwhenthearrearagehasbeen paid. (2) ENFORCEMENTOFINCOMEDEDUCTIONORDERS. (a) Theobligeeorhisorheragentshallserveanincomedeductionorder andnoticetopayor,or,inTitleIVDcases,theTitleIVDagencyshallissuean incomedeductionnotice,andinthecaseofadelinquencyanoticeof delinquency,ontheobligorspayorunlesstheobligorhasappliedfora hearingtocontesttheenforcementoftheincomedeductionpursuantto paragraph(c). (b)1. Servicebyoruponanypersonwhoisapartytoaproceedingunder thissectionshallbemadeinthemannerprescribedintheFloridaRulesof CivilProcedureforserviceuponparties. 2. Serviceuponanobligorspayororsuccessorpayorunderthissection shallbemadebyprepaidcertifiedmail,returnreceiptrequested,orinthe mannerprescribedinchapter48.
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(c)1. Theobligor,within15daysafterserviceofanoticeofdelinquency, mayapplyforahearingtocontesttheenforcementoftheincomededuction onthegroundofmistakeoffactregardingtheamountowedpursuanttoan orderestablishing,enforcing,ormodifyinganobligationforalimony,for childsupport,orforalimonyandchildsupport,theamountofthearrearage, ortheidentityoftheobligor,thepayor,ortheobligee.Theobligorshallsend acopyofthepleadingtotheobligeeand,iftheobligeeisreceivingIVD services,totheIVDagency.Thetimelyfilingofthepleadingshallstay serviceofanincomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVDcases,incomededuction noticeonallpayorsoftheobligoruntilahearingisheldandadetermination ismadeastowhetherenforcementoftheincomedeductionorderisproper. Thepaymentofadelinquentobligationbyanobligoruponentryofan incomedeductionordershallnotprecludeserviceoftheincomededuction orderor,inTitleIVDcases,anincomedeductionnoticeontheobligors payor. 2. Whenanobligortimelyrequestsahearingtocontestenforcementofan incomedeductionorder,thecourt,afterduenoticetoallpartiesandtheIVD agencyiftheobligeeisreceivingIVDservices,shallhearthematterwithin20 daysaftertheapplicationisfiled.Thecourtshallenteranorderresolvingthe matterwithin10daysafterthehearing.Acopyofthisordershallbeserved onthepartiesandtheIVDagencyiftheobligeeisreceivingIVDservices.If thecourtdeterminesthatincomedeductionisproper,itshallspecifythedate theincomedeductionordermustbeservedontheobligorspayor. (d) Whenacourtdeterminesthatanincomedeductionorderisproper pursuanttoparagraph(c),theobligeeorhisorheragentshallcauseacopyof thenoticeofdelinquencytobeservedontheobligorspayors.Acopyofthe incomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVDcases,incomedeductionnotice,and inthecaseofadelinquencyanoticeofdelinquency,shallalsobefurnishedto theobligor. (e) Noticetopayorandincomedeductionnotice.Thenoticetopayoror, inTitleIVDcases,incomedeductionnoticeshallcontainonlyinformation
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necessaryforthepayortocomplywiththeorderprovidingforincome deduction.Thenoticeshall: 1. Providetheobligorssocialsecuritynumber. 2. Requirethepayortodeductfromtheobligorsincometheamount specifiedintheincomedeductionorder,andinthecaseofadelinquencythe amountspecifiedinthenoticeofdelinquency,andtopaythatamounttothe obligeeortothedepository,asappropriate.Theamountactuallydeducted plusalladministrativechargesshallnotbeinexcessoftheamountallowed unders.303(b)oftheConsumerCreditProtectionAct,15U.S.C.s.1673(b); 3. Instructthepayortoimplementincomedeductionnolaterthanthe firstpaymentdatewhichoccursmorethan14daysafterthedatetheincome deductionnoticewasservedonthepayor,andthepayorshallconformthe amountspecifiedintheincomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVDcases, incomedeductionnoticetotheobligorspaycycle.Thecourtshouldrequest atthetimeoftheorderthatthepaymentcyclereflectthatofthepayor; 4. Instructthepayortoforward,within2daysaftereachdatetheobligor isentitledtopaymentfromthepayor,totheobligeeortothedepositorythe amountdeductedfromtheobligorsincome,astatementastowhetherthe amounttotallyorpartiallysatisfiestheperiodicamountspecifiedinthe incomedeductionorderor,inTitleIVDcases,incomedeductionnotice,and thespecificdateeachdeductionismade.IftheIVDagencyisenforcingthe order,thepayorshallmakethesenotificationstotheagencyinsteadofthe obligee; 5. Specifythatifapayorfailstodeducttheproperamountfromthe obligorsincome,thepayorisliablefortheamountthepayorshouldhave deducted,pluscosts,interest,andreasonableattorneysfees; 6. Providethatthepayormaycollectupto$5againsttheobligorsincome toreimbursethepayorforadministrativecostsforthefirstincomededuction andupto$2foreachdeductionthereafter; 7. Statethatthenoticetopayoror,inTitleIVDcases,incomededuction notice,andinthecaseofadelinquencythenoticeofdelinquency,arebinding
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onthepayoruntilfurthernoticebytheobligee,IVDagency,orthecourtor untilthepayornolongerprovidesincometotheobligor; 8. Instructthepayorthat,whenheorshenolongerprovidesincometo theobligor,heorsheshallnotifytheobligeeandshallalsoprovidethe obligorslastknownaddressandthenameandaddressoftheobligorsnew payor,ifknown;andthat,ifthepayorviolatesthisprovision,thepayoris subjecttoacivilpenaltynottoexceed$250forthefirstviolationor$500for anysubsequentviolation.IftheIVDagencyisenforcingtheorder,thepayor shallmakethesenotificationstotheagencyinsteadoftotheobligee.Penalties shallbepaidtotheobligeeortheIVDagency,whicheverisenforcingthe incomedeductionorder; 9. Statethatthepayorshallnotdischarge,refusetoemploy,ortake disciplinaryactionagainstanobligorbecauseoftherequirementforincome deductionandshallstatethataviolationofthisprovisionsubjectsthepayor toacivilpenaltynottoexceed$250forthefirstviolationor$500forany subsequentviolation.PenaltiesshallbepaidtotheobligeeortheIVDagency, whicheverisenforcingtheincomededuction,ifanyalimonyorchildsupport obligationisowing.Ifnoalimonyorchildsupportobligationisowing,the penaltyshallbepaidtotheobligor; 10. Statethatanobligormaybringacivilactioninthecourtsofthisstate againstapayorwhorefusestoemploy,discharges,orotherwisedisciplinesan obligorbecauseofincomededuction.Theobligorisentitledtoreinstatement andallwagesandbenefitslost,plusreasonableattorneysfeesandcosts incurred; 11. Informthepayorthattherequirementforincomedeductionhas priorityoverallotherlegalprocessesunderstatelawpertainingtothesame incomeandthatpayment,asrequiredbythenoticetopayororincome deductionnotice,isacompletedefensebythepayoragainstanyclaimsofthe obligororhisorhercreditorsastothesumpaid; 12. Informthepayorthat,whenthepayorreceivesnoticestopayoror incomedeductionnoticesrequiringthattheincomeoftwoormoreobligors bedeductedandsenttothesamedepository,thepayormaycombinethe
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amountsthataretobepaidtothedepositoryinasinglepaymentaslongas thepaymentsattributabletoeachobligorareclearlyidentified; 13. Informthepayorthatifthepayorreceivesmorethanonenoticeto payororincomedeductionnoticeagainstthesameobligor,thepayorshall contactthecourtor,inTitleIVDcases,theTitleIVDagencyforfurther instructions.Uponbeingsocontacted,thecourtor,inTitleIVDcaseswhen allthecasesuponwhichthenoticesarebasedareTitleIVDcases,theTitleIV Dagencyshallallocateamountsavailableforincomedeductionasprovided insubsection(4);and 14. StatethatinaTitleIVDcase,ifanobligationtopaycurrentsupportis reducedorterminatedduetotheemancipationofachildandtheobligor owesanarrearage,retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,income deductioncontinuesattherateineffectimmediatelypriortoemancipation untilallarrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,andcostsarepaidin fulloruntiltheamountofwithholdingismodified. (f) Atanytimeanincomedeductionorderisbeingenforced,theobligor mayapplytothecourtforahearingtocontestthecontinuedenforcementof theincomedeductiononthesamegroundssetoutinparagraph(c),witha copytotheobligeeand,inIVDcases,totheIVDagency.Iftheincome deductionorderbeingenforcedwasrenderedbytheIVDagencypursuantto s.409.2563andtheobligorconteststhewithholding,theobligorshallfilea petitionforanadministrativehearingwiththeIVDagency.Theapplication orpetitiondoesnotaffectthecontinuedenforcementoftheincomededuction untilthecourtorIVDagency,ifapplicable,entersanordergrantingreliefto theobligor.TheobligeeortheIVDagencyisreleasedfromliabilityfor improperreceiptofmoneyspursuanttoanincomedeductionorderupon returntotheappropriatepartyofanymoneysreceived. (g) Anobligeeorhisorheragentshallenforceanincomedeductionorder againstanobligorssuccessorpayorwhoislocatedinthisstateinthesame mannerprescribedinthissectionfortheenforcementofanincomededuction orderagainstapayor.
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(h)1. Whenanincomedeductionorderistobeenforcedagainstapayor locatedoutsidethestate,theobligeewhoisreceivingIVDservicesorhisor heragentshallpromptlyrequesttheagencyresponsibleforincomededuction intheotherstatetoenforcetheincomedeductionorder.Therequestshall containallinformationnecessarytoenforcetheincomedeductionorder, includingtheamounttobeperiodicallydeducted,acopyoftheorder establishing,enforcing,ormodifyingtheobligation,andastatementof arrearages,ifapplicable. 2. WhentheIVDagencyisrequestedbytheagencyresponsiblefor incomedeductioninanotherstatetoenforceanincomedeductionorder againstapayorlocatedinthisstateforthebenefitofanobligeewhoisbeing providedIVDservicesbytheagencyintheotherstate,theIVDagencyshall actpromptlypursuanttotheapplicableprovisionsofthissection. 3. Whenanobligorwhoissubjecttoanincomedeductionorderenforced againstapayorlocatedinthisstateforthebenefitofanobligeewhoisbeing providedIVDservicesbytheagencyresponsibleforincomedeductionin anotherstateterminateshisorherrelationshipwithhisorherpayor,theIVD agencyshallnotifytheagencyintheotherstateandprovideitwiththename andaddressoftheobligorandtheaddressofanynewpayoroftheobligor,if known. 4.a. Theproceduralrulesandlawsofthisstategoverntheprocedural aspectsofincomedeductionwhenevertheagencyresponsibleforincome deductioninanotherstaterequeststheenforcementofanincomededuction orderinthisstate. b. Exceptwithrespecttowhenwithholdingmustbeimplemented,which iscontrolledbythestatewheretheorderestablishing,enforcing,or modifyingtheobligationwasentered,thesubstantivelawofthisstateshall applywhenevertheagencyresponsibleforincomedeductioninanotherstate requeststheenforcementofanincomedeductioninthisstate. c. WhentheIVDagencyisrequestedbyanagencyresponsiblefor incomedeductioninanotherstatetoimplementincomedeductionagainsta payorlocatedinthisstateforthebenefitofanobligeewhoisbeingprovided
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IVDservicesbytheagencyintheotherstateorwhentheIVDagencyinthis stateinitiatesanincomedeductionrequestonbehalfofanobligeereceiving IVDservicesinthisstateagainstapayorinanotherstate,pursuanttothis sectionortheUniformInterstateFamilySupportAct,theIVDagencyshall filetheinterstateincomedeductiondocuments,oranaffidavitofsuchrequest whentheincomedeductiondocumentsarenotavailable,withthedepository andiftheIVDagencyinthisstateisrespondingtoarequestfromanother state,providecopiestothepayorandobligorinaccordancewithsubsection (1).Thedepositorycreatedpursuanttos.61.181shallaccepttheinterstate incomedeductiondocumentsoraffidavitandshallestablishanaccountfor thereceiptanddisbursementofchildsupportorchildsupportandalimony paymentsandadvisetheIVDagencyoftheaccountnumberinwriting within2daysafterreceiptofthedocumentsoraffidavit. (i) Certifiedcopiesofpaymentrecordsmaintainedbyadepositoryshall, withoutfurtherproof,beadmittedintoevidenceinanylegalproceedingin thisstate. (j)1. Apersonmaynotdischarge,refusetoemploy,ortakedisciplinary actionagainstanemployeebecauseoftheenforcementofanincome deductionorder.Anemployerwhoviolatesthissubsectionissubjecttoacivil penaltynottoexceed$250forthefirstviolationor$500foranysubsequent violation.PenaltiesshallbepaidtotheobligeeortheIVDagency,whichever isenforcingtheincomededuction,ifanyalimonyorchildsupportisowing.If noalimonyorchildsupportisowing,thepenaltyshallbepaidtotheobligor. 2. Anemployeemaybringacivilactioninthecourtsofthisstateagainst anemployerwhorefusestoemploy,discharges,orotherwisedisciplinesan employeebecauseofanincomedeductionorder.Theemployeeisentitledto reinstatementandallwagesandbenefitslostplusreasonableattorneysfees andcostsincurred. (k) Whenapayornolongerprovidesincometoanobligor,heorsheshall notifytheobligeeand,iftheobligeeisaIVDapplicant,theIVDagencyand shallalsoprovidetheobligorslastknownaddressandthenameandaddress oftheobligorsnewpayor,ifknown.Apayorwhoviolatesthissubsectionis
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subjecttoacivilpenaltynottoexceed$250forthefirstviolationor$500fora subsequentviolation.PenaltiesshallbepaidtotheobligeeortheIVDagency, whicheverisenforcingtheincomedeductionorder. (3)(a) ItistheintentoftheLegislaturethatthissectionmaybeusedto collectarrearagesinchildsupportorinalimonypayments. (b) InaTitleIVDcase,ifanobligationtopaycurrentsupportisreduced orterminatedduetotheemancipationofachildandtheobligorowesan arrearage,retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,incomededuction continuesattherateineffectimmediatelypriortoemancipationuntilall arrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,andcostsarepaidinfullor untiltheamountofwithholdingismodified.Anyincomedeductedamount thatisinexcessoftheobligationtopaycurrentsupportshallbecredited againstthearrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquency,andcostsowedby theobligor.Thedepartmentshallsendnoticeofthisrequirementbyregular mailtothepayorandthedepositoryoperatedpursuanttos.61.181,andthe noticeshallstatetheamountoftheobligationtopaycurrentsupport,ifany, andtheamountowedforarrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquency,and costs.ForincomedeductionordersenteredbeforeJuly1,2004,whichdonot includethisrequirement,thedepartmentshallsendbycertifiedmail, restricteddelivery,returnreceiptrequested,totheobligoratthemostrecent addressprovidedbytheobligortothetribunalthatissuedtheorderoramore recentaddressifknown,noticeofthisrequirement,thattheobligormay contestthewithholdingasprovidedbyparagraph(2)(f),andthattheobligor mayrequestthetribunalthatissuedtheincomedeductiontomodifythe amountofthewithholding.Thisparagraphprovidesanadditionalremedy forcollectionofunpaidsupportandappliestocasesinwhichasupportorder orincomedeductionorderwasenteredbefore,on,orafterJuly1,2004. (c) Ifadelinquencyaccruesafteranorderestablishing,modifying,or enforcingasupportobligationhasbeenentered,anincomedeductionorder enteredafterJuly1,2006,isineffect,andthereisnoorderforrepaymentof thedelinquencyorapreexistingarrearage,apayorwhoisservedwithan incomedeductionorderor,inaTitleIVDcase,anincomedeductionnotice
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shalldeductanadditional20percentofthecurrentsupportobligationor otheramountagreedtobythepartiesuntilthedelinquencyandany attorneysfeesandcostsarepaidinfull.Nodeductionmaybeappliedto attorneysfeesandcostsuntilthedelinquencyispaidinfull. (4) Whenthereismorethanoneincomedeductionnoticeagainstthe sameobligor,theamountsavailableforincomedeductionmustbeallocated amongallobligeefamiliesasfollows: (a) Forcomputationpurposes,allobligationsmustbeconvertedtoa commonpayrollfrequency,andthepercentageofdeductionallowedunders. 303(b)oftheConsumerCreditProtectionAct,15U.S.C.s.1673(b),as amended,mustbedetermined.Theamountofincomeavailablefordeduction isdeterminedbymultiplyingthatpercentagebytheobligorsnetincome. (b) Ifthetotalmonthlysupportobligationtoallfamiliesislessthanthe amountofincomeavailablefordeduction,thefullamountofeachobligation mustbededucted. (c) Ifthetotalmonthlysupportobligationtoallfamiliesisgreaterthan theamountofincomeavailablefordeduction,theamountofthededuction mustbeprorated,givingprioritytocurrentsupport,sothateachfamilyis allocatedapercentageoftheamountdeducted.Thepercentagetobeallocated toeachfamilyisdeterminedbydividingeachcurrentsupportobligationby thetotalofallcurrentsupportobligations.Ifthetotalofallcurrentsupport obligationsislessthantheincomeavailablefordeduction,andpastdue supportisowedtomorethanonefamily,thentheremainderoftheavailable incomemustbeproratedsothateachfamilyisallocatedapercentageofthe remainingincomeavailablefordeduction.Thepercentagetobeallocatedto eachfamilyisdeterminedbydividingeachpastduesupportobligationbythe totalofallpastduesupportobligations. (5) ByJuly1,2006,thedepartmentshallprovideapayorwithInternet accesstoincomedeductionandnationalmedicalsupportnoticesissuedby thedepartmentonorafterJuly1,2006,concerninganobligortowhomthe payorpaysincome.Thedepartmentshallprovideapayorwhorequests Internetaccesswithausercodeandpasswordtoallowthepayortoreceive
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noticeselectronicallyandtodownloadtheinformationnecessarytobegin incomedeductionandhealthinsuranceenrollment.Ifaparticipatingpayor doesnotrespondtoelectronicnoticebyaccessingthedatapostedbythe departmentwithin48hours,thedepartmentshallmailtheincomededuction ormedicalsupportnoticetothepayor. History.s.3,ch.84110;s.4,ch.85178;ss.119,120,ch.86220;s.2,ch.87 95;s.5,ch.88176;s.2,ch.89183;s.13,ch.9145;s.3,ch.92138;s.1,ch.9369; s.5,ch.93188;s.19,ch.93208;s.1,ch.94318;s.1364,ch.95147;s.3,ch.96 310;s.4,ch.97170;s.9,ch.98397;s.3,ch.99375;s.5,ch.2001158;s.3,ch. 2004334;s.2,ch.200539;s.3,ch.200990. 61.13015 Petitionforsuspensionordenialofprofessionallicensesand certificates. (1) Anobligeemaypetitionthecourtwhichenteredthesupportorderor thecourtwhichisenforcingthesupportorderforanordertosuspendor denythelicenseorcertificateissuedpursuanttochapters409,455,456,559, and1012ofanyobligorwithadelinquentsupportobligation.However,no petitionmaybefileduntiltheobligeehasexhaustedallotheravailable remedies.Thepurposeofthissectionistopromotethepublicpolicyofs. 409.2551. (2) Theobligeeshallgivenoticetoanyobligorwhenadelinquencyexists inthesupportobligation.Thenoticeshallspecifythattheobligorhas30days fromthedateonwhichserviceofthenoticeiscompletetopaythe delinquencyortoreachanagreementwiththeobligeetopaythe delinquency.Thenoticeshallspecifythat,ifpaymentisnotmadeoran agreementcannotbereached,thelicenseorcertificatemaybedeniedor suspendedpursuanttoacourtorder. (3) Ifadelinquencyexistsandtheobligorfailstopaythedelinquencyor toreachanagreementtopaythedelinquencywithin30daysfollowing completionofserviceofthenoticeofthedelinquency,theobligeeshallsenda secondnoticetotheobligorstatingthattheobligorhas30daystopaythe delinquencyorreachanagreementwiththeobligeetopaythedelinquency.If theobligorfailstorespondtoeithernoticefromtheobligeeoriftheobligor
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failstopaythedelinquencyortoreachanagreementtopaythedelinquency afterthesecondnotice,theobligeemaypetitionthecourttodenythe applicationforthelicenseorcertificateortosuspendthelicenseorcertificate oftheobligor.Thecourtmayfindthatitwouldbeinappropriatetodenyor suspendalicenseorcertificateif: (a) Denialorsuspensionwouldresultinirreparableharmtotheobligor oremployeesoftheobligororwouldnotaccomplishtheobjectiveof collectingthedelinquency;or (b) Theobligordemonstratesthatheorshehasmadeagoodfaitheffort toreachanagreementwiththeobligee. The court may not deny or suspend a license or certificate if the court determines that an alternative remedy is available to the obligee which is likelytoaccomplishtheobjectiveofcollectingthedelinquency.Iftheobligor fails in the defense of a petition for denial or suspension, the court which entered the support order or the court which is enforcing the support order shallenteranordertodenytheapplicationforthelicenseorcertificateorto suspendthelicenseorcertificateoftheobligor.Inthecaseofsuspension,the court shall order the obligor to surrender the certificate or license to the departmentortothelicensingboardwhichissuedthelicenseorcertificate.In the case of denial, the court shall order the appropriate department or licensingboardtodenytheapplication. (4) Ifthecourtdeniesorsuspendsalicenseorcertificateandtheobligor subsequentlypaysthedelinquencyorreachesanagreementwiththeobligee tosettlethedelinquencyandmakesthefirstpaymentrequiredbythe agreement,thelicenseorcertificateshallbeissuedorreinstateduponwritten prooftothecourtthattheobligorhascompliedwiththecourtorder.Proofof paymentshallconsistofacertifiedcopyofthepaymentrecordissuedbythe depository.Thecourtshallordertheappropriatedepartmentorlicensing boardtoissueorreinstatethelicenseorcertificatewithoutadditionalcharge totheobligor.
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(5) Noticeshallbeservedunderthissectionbymailingitbycertified mail,returnreceiptrequested,totheobligorathisorherlastaddressof recordwiththelocaldepository.Iftheobligorhasnoaddressofrecordwith thelocaldepository,orifthelastaddressofrecordwiththelocaldepositoryis incorrect,serviceshallbebypublicationasprovidedinchapter49.When serviceofthenoticeismadebymail,serviceiscompleteuponthereceiptof thenoticebytheobligor. History.s.2,ch.93208;s.323,ch.95147;s.1,ch.2000160;s.6,ch.2001 158;s.886,ch.2002387. 61.13016 Suspensionofdriverslicensesandmotorvehicleregistrations. (1) Thedriverslicenseandmotorvehicleregistrationofasupportobligor whoisdelinquentinpaymentorwhohasfailedtocomplywithsubpoenasor asimilarordertoappearorshowcauserelatingtopaternityorsupport proceedingsmaybesuspended.Whenanobligoris15daysdelinquent makingapaymentinsupportorfailuretocomplywithasubpoena,orderto appear,ordertoshowcause,orsimilarorderinIVDcases,theTitleIVD agencymayprovidenoticetotheobligorofthedelinquencyorfailureto complywithasubpoena,ordertoappear,ordertoshowcause,orsimilar orderandtheintenttosuspendbyregularUnitedStatesmailthatispostedto theobligorslastaddressofrecordwiththeDepartmentofHighwaySafety andMotorVehicles.Whenanobligoris15daysdelinquentinmakinga paymentinsupportinnonIVDcases,andupontherequestoftheobligee, thedepositoryortheclerkofthecourtmustprovidenoticetotheobligorof thedelinquencyandtheintenttosuspendbyregularUnitedStatesmailthat ispostedtotheobligorslastaddressofrecordwiththeDepartmentof HighwaySafetyandMotorVehicles.Ineithercase,thenoticemuststate: (a) Thetermsoftheordercreatingthesupportobligation; (b) Theperiodofthedelinquencyandthetotalamountofthedelinquency asofthedateofthenoticeordescribethesubpoena,ordertoappear,orderto showcause,orothersimilarorderwhichhasnotbeencompliedwith; (c) ThatnotificationwillbegiventotheDepartmentofHighwaySafety andMotorVehiclestosuspendtheobligorsdriverslicenseandmotor
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vehicleregistrationunless,within20daysafterthedatethenoticeismailed, theobligor: 1.a. Paysthedelinquencyinfullandanyothercostsandfeesaccrued betweenthedateofthenoticeandthedatethedelinquencyispaid; b. EntersintoawrittenagreementforpaymentwiththeobligeeinnonIV DcasesorwiththeTitleIVDagencyinIVDcases;orinIVDcases, complieswithasubpoenaorordertoappear,ordertoshowcause,ora similarorder;or c. Filesapetitionwiththecircuitcourttocontestthedelinquencyaction; and 2. Paysanyapplicabledelinquencyfees. IftheobligorinnonIVDcasesentersintoawrittenagreementforpayment beforetheexpirationofthe20dayperiod,theobligormustprovideacopyof thesignedwrittenagreementtothedepositoryortheclerkofthecourt. (2)(a) Uponpetitionfiledbytheobligorinthecircuitcourtwithin20days afterthemailingdateofthenotice,thecourtmay,initsdiscretion,directthe departmenttoissuealicensefordrivingprivilegesrestrictedtobusiness purposesonly,asdefinedbys.322.271,ifthepersonisotherwisequalifiedfor suchalicense.Asaconditionforthecourttoexerciseitsdiscretionunderthis subsection,theobligormustagreetoascheduleofpaymentonanychild supportarrearagesandtomaintaincurrentchildsupportobligations.Ifthe obligorfailstocomplywiththescheduleofpayment,thecourtshalldirectthe DepartmentofHighwaySafetyandMotorVehiclestosuspendtheobligors driverslicense. (b) TheobligormustserveacopyofthepetitionontheTitleIVDagency inIVDcasesoronthedepositoryortheclerkofthecourtinnonIVDcases. Whenanobligortimelyfilesapetitiontosetasideasuspension,thecourt musthearthematterwithin15daysafterthepetitionisfiled.Thecourtmust enteranorderresolvingthematterwithin10daysafterthehearing,anda copyoftheordermustbeservedontheparties.Thetimelyfilingofapetition
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underthissubsectionstaystheintenttosuspenduntiltheentryofacourt orderresolvingthematter. (3) Iftheobligordoesnot,within20daysafterthemailingdateonthe notice,paythedelinquency,enterintoapaymentagreement,complywiththe subpoena,ordertoappear,ordertoshowcause,orothersimilarorder,orfile amotiontocontest,theTitleIVDagencyinIVDcases,orthedepositoryor clerkofthecourtinnonIVDcases,shallfilethenoticewiththeDepartment ofHighwaySafetyandMotorVehiclesandrequestthesuspensionofthe obligorsdriverslicenseandmotorvehicleregistrationinaccordancewiths. 322.058. (4) Theobligormay,within20daysafterthemailingdateonthenoticeof delinquencyornoncomplianceandintenttosuspend,fileinthecircuitcourta petitiontocontestthenoticeofdelinquencyornoncomplianceandintentto suspendonthegroundofmistakeoffactregardingtheexistenceofa delinquencyortheidentityoftheobligor.Theobligormustserveacopyof thepetitionontheTitleIVDagencyinIVDcasesordepositoryorclerkof thecourtinnonIVDcases.Whenanobligortimelyfilesapetitiontocontest, thecourtmusthearthematterwithin15daysafterthepetitionisfiled.The courtmustenteranorderresolvingthematterwithin10daysafterthe hearing,andacopyoftheordermustbeservedontheparties.Thetimely filingofapetitiontoconteststaysthenoticeofdelinquencyandintentto suspenduntiltheentryofacourtorderresolvingthematter. (5) Theproceduresprescribedinthissectionands.322.058maybeused toenforcecompliancewithanordertoappearforgenetictesting. History.s.1,ch.95222;s.6,ch.9796;s.5,ch.97170;s.1,ch.97206;s.4, ch.99375;s.7,ch.2001158;s.3,ch.200539;s.1,ch.2005164. 61.1354 Sharingofinformationbetweenconsumerreportingagenciesand theIVDagency. (1) Uponreceiptofarequestfromaconsumerreportingagencyas definedins.603(f)oftheFairCreditReportingAct,theIVDagencyorthe depositoryinnonTitleIVDcasesshallmakeavailableinformationrelating totheamountofcurrentandoverduesupportowedbyanobligor.TheIVD
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agencyorthedepositoryinnonTitleIVDcasesshallgivetheobligorwritten notice,atleast15dayspriortothereleaseofinformation,oftheIVDagencys ordepositorysauthoritytoreleaseinformationtoconsumerreporting agenciesrelatingtotheamountofcurrentandoverduesupportowedbythe obligor.Theobligorshallbeinformedofhisorherrighttorequestahearing withtheIVDagencyorthecourtinnonTitleIVDcasestocontestthe accuracyoftheinformation. (2) TheIVDagencyshallreportperiodicallytoappropriateconsumer reportingagencies,asidentifiedbytheIVDagency,thenameandsocial securitynumberofanydelinquentobligor,theamountofoverduesupport owedbytheobligor,andtheamountoftheobligorscurrentsupport obligationwhentheoverduesupportispaid.TheIVDagency,orits designee,shallprovidetheobligorwithwrittennotice,atleast15daysprior totheinitialreleaseofinformation,oftheIVDagencysauthoritytorelease theinformationperiodicallytotheconsumerreportingagencies.Thenotice shallstatetheamountofoverduesupportowedandtheamountofcurrent supportowedwhentheoverduesupportispaidandshallinformtheobligor oftherighttorequestahearingwiththeIVDagencywithin15daysafter receiptofthenoticetocontesttheaccuracyoftheinformation.Aftertheinitial noticeisgiven,nofurthernoticeoropportunityforahearingneedbegiven whenupdatedinformationconcerningthesameobligorisperiodically releasedtotheconsumerreportingagencies. (3) Forpurposesofdetermininganindividualsincomeandestablishing anindividualscapacitytomakesupportpaymentsorfordeterminingthe appropriateamountofchildsupportpaymenttobemadebytheindividual, consumerreportingagenciesshallprovide,uponrequest,consumerreportsto theheadoftheIVDagencypursuanttos.604oftheFairCreditReporting Act,providedthattheheadoftheIVDagency,oritsdesignee,certifiesthat: (a) Theconsumerreportisneededforthepurposeofdeterminingan individualsincomeandestablishinganindividualscapacitytomake supportpaymentsordeterminingtheappropriateamountofchildsupport paymenttobemadebytheindividual;
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(b) Paternityofthechildoftheindividualwhosereportissought,ifthat individualisthefatherofthechild,hasbeenestablishedoracknowledged pursuanttothelawsofFlorida; (c) Theindividualwhosereportissoughtwasprovidedwithatleast15 dayspriornotice,bycertifiedorregisteredmailtotheindividualslast knownaddress,thatthereportwasrequested;and (d) Theconsumerreportwillbeusedsolelyforthepurposedescribedin paragraph(a). (4) Forpurposesofsettinganinitialormodifiedchildsupportorder, consumerreportingagenciesshallprovide,uponrequest,consumerreportsto theIVDagency. (5) TheDepartmentofRevenueisauthorizedtoadoptrulesnecessaryto implementthissection. History.s.123,ch.86220;s.4,ch.92138;s.334,ch.95147;s.6,ch.97170; s.9,ch.2001158;s.4,ch.200539;s.2,ch.200582. 61.14 Enforcementandmodificationofsupport,maintenance,oralimony agreementsororders. (1)(a) Whenthepartiesenterintoanagreementforpaymentsfor,or insteadof,support,maintenance,oralimony,whetherinconnectionwitha proceedingfordissolutionorseparatemaintenanceorwithanyvoluntary propertysettlement,orwhenapartyisrequiredbycourtordertomakeany payments,andthecircumstancesorthefinancialabilityofeitherparty changesorthechildwhoisabeneficiaryofanagreementorcourtorderas describedhereinreachesmajorityaftertheexecutionoftheagreementorthe renditionoftheorder,eitherpartymayapplytothecircuitcourtofthecircuit inwhichtheparties,oreitherofthem,residedatthedateoftheexecutionof theagreementorresideatthedateoftheapplication,orinwhichthe agreementwasexecutedorinwhichtheorderwasrendered,foranorder decreasingorincreasingtheamountofsupport,maintenance,oralimony,and thecourthasjurisdictiontomakeordersasequityrequires,withdueregard tothechangedcircumstancesorthefinancialabilityofthepartiesorthechild, decreasing,increasing,orconfirmingtheamountofseparatesupport,
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maintenance,oralimonyprovidedforintheagreementororder.Afinding thatmedicalinsuranceisreasonablyavailableorthechildsupportguidelines scheduleins.61.30mayconstitutechangedcircumstances.Exceptas otherwiseprovidedins.61.30(11)(c),thecourtmaymodifyanorderof support,maintenance,oralimonybyincreasingordecreasingthesupport, maintenance,oralimonyretroactivelytothedateofthefilingoftheactionor supplementalactionformodificationasequityrequires,givingdueregardto thechangedcircumstancesorthefinancialabilityofthepartiesorthechild. (b)1. Thecourtmayreduceorterminateanawardofalimonyupon specificwrittenfindingsbythecourtthatsincethegrantingofadivorceand theawardofalimonyasupportiverelationshiphasexistedbetweenthe obligeeandapersonwithwhomtheobligeeresides.Ontheissueofwhether alimonyshouldbereducedorterminatedunderthisparagraph,theburdenis ontheobligortoprovebyapreponderanceoftheevidencethatasupportive relationshipexists. 2. Indeterminingwhetheranexistingawardofalimonyshouldbe reducedorterminatedbecauseofanallegedsupportiverelationshipbetween anobligeeandapersonwhoisnotrelatedbyconsanguinityoraffinityand withwhomtheobligeeresides,thecourtshallelicitthenatureandextentof therelationshipinquestion.Thecourtshallgiveconsideration,without limitation,tocircumstances,including,butnotlimitedto,thefollowing,in determiningtherelationshipofanobligeetoanotherperson: a. Theextenttowhichtheobligeeandtheotherpersonhaveheld themselvesoutasamarriedcouplebyengaginginconductsuchasusingthe samelastname,usingacommonmailingaddress,referringtoeachotherin termssuchasmyhusbandormywife,orotherwiseconducting themselvesinamannerthatevidencesapermanentsupportiverelationship. b. Theperiodoftimethattheobligeehasresidedwiththeotherpersonin apermanentplaceofabode. c. Theextenttowhichtheobligeeandtheotherpersonhavepooledtheir assetsorincomeorotherwiseexhibitedfinancialinterdependence.
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d. Theextenttowhichtheobligeeortheotherpersonhassupportedthe other,inwholeorinpart. e. Theextenttowhichtheobligeeortheotherpersonhasperformed valuableservicesfortheother. f. Theextenttowhichtheobligeeortheotherpersonhasperformed valuableservicesfortheotherscompanyoremployer. g. Whethertheobligeeandtheotherpersonhaveworkedtogetherto createorenhanceanythingofvalue. h. Whethertheobligeeandtheotherpersonhavejointlycontributedto thepurchaseofanyrealorpersonalproperty. i. Evidenceinsupportofaclaimthattheobligeeandtheotherperson haveanexpressagreementregardingpropertysharingorsupport. j. Evidenceinsupportofaclaimthattheobligeeandtheotherperson haveanimpliedagreementregardingpropertysharingorsupport. k. Whethertheobligeeandtheotherpersonhaveprovidedsupporttothe childrenofoneanother,regardlessofanylegaldutytodoso. 3. Thisparagraphdoesnotabrogatetherequirementthateverymarriage inthisstatebesolemnizedunderalicense,doesnotrecognizeacommonlaw marriageasvalid,anddoesnotrecognizeadefactomarriage.Thisparagraph recognizesonlythatrelationshipsdoexistthatprovideeconomicsupport equivalenttoamarriageandthatalimonyterminableonremarriagemaybe reducedorterminatedupontheestablishmentofequivalentequitable circumstancesasdescribedinthisparagraph.Theexistenceofaconjugal relationship,thoughitmayberelevanttothenatureandextentofthe relationship,isnotnecessaryfortheapplicationoftheprovisionsofthis paragraph. (c) Foreachsupportorderreviewedbythedepartmentasrequiredbys. 409.2564(11),iftheamountofthechildsupportawardundertheorderdiffers byatleast10percentbutnotlessthan$25fromtheamountthatwouldbe awardedunders.61.30,thedepartmentshallseektohavetheordermodified andanymodificationshallbemadewithoutarequirementforproofor showingofachangeincircumstances.
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(d) Thedepartmentshallhaveauthoritytoadoptrulestoimplementthis section. (2) Whenanorderoragreementismodifiedpursuanttosubsection(1), thepartyhavinganobligationtopayshallpayonlytheamountofsupport, maintenance,oralimonydirectedintheneworder,andtheagreementor earlierorderismodifiedaccordingly.Nopersonmaycommenceanactionfor modificationofasupport,maintenance,oralimonyagreementororderexcept ashereinprovided.Nocourthasjurisdictiontoentertainanyactiontoenforce therecoveryofseparatesupport,maintenance,oralimonyotherthanas hereinprovided. (3) Thissectionisdeclaratoryofexistingpublicpolicyandofthelawsof thisstate. (4) Ifapartyappliesforareductionofalimonyorchildsupportandthe circumstancesjustifythereduction,thecourtmaymakethereductionof alimonyorchildsupportregardlessofwhetherornotthepartyapplyingfor ithasfullypaidtheaccruedobligationstotheotherpartyatthetimeofthe applicationoratthetimeoftheorderofmodification. (5)(a) Whenacourtofcompetentjurisdictionentersanorderforthe paymentofalimonyorchildsupportorboth,thecourtshallmakeafindingof theobligorsimputedoractualpresentabilitytocomplywiththeorder.Ifthe obligorsubsequentlyfailstopayalimonyorsupportandacontempthearing isheld,theoriginalorderofthecourtcreatesapresumptionthattheobligor hasthepresentabilitytopaythealimonyorsupportandtopurgehimselfor herselffromthecontempt.Atthecontempthearing,theobligorshallhavethe burdenofprooftoshowthatheorshelackstheabilitytopurgehimselfor herselffromthecontempt.Thispresumptionisadoptedasapresumption unders.90.302(2)toimplementthepublicpolicyofthisstatethatchildren shallbemaintainedfromtheresourcesoftheirparentsandasprovidedforin s.409.2551,andthatspousesbemaintainedasprovidedforins.61.08.The courtshallstateinitsorderthereasonsforgrantingordenyingthecontempt. (b) Inaproceedingincircuitcourttoenforceasupportorderunderthis chapter,chapter88,chapter409,orchapter742,oranyotherprovisionoflaw,
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ifthecourtfindsthatpaymentsdueunderthesupportorderaredelinquent oroverdueandthattheobligorisunemployed,underemployed,orhasno incomebutisabletoworkorparticipateinjobtraining,thecourtmayorder theobligorto: 1. Seekemployment. 2. Fileperiodicreportswiththecourt,orwiththedepartmentifthe departmentisprovidingTitleIVDservices,detailingtheobligorseffortsto seekandobtainemploymentduringthereportingperiod. 3. Notifythecourtorthedepartment,asappropriate,uponobtaining employment,income,orproperty. 4. Participateinjobtraining,jobplacement,workexperience,orother workprogramsthatmaybeavailablepursuanttochapter445,chapter446,or anyothersource. An obligor who willfully fails to comply with a court order to seek work or participateinotherworkrelatedactivitiesmaybeheldincontemptofcourt. Thisparagraphisinfurtheranceof thepublic policy ofthestate ofensuring thatchildrenaremaintainedfromtheresourcesoftheirparentstotheextent possible. (6)(a)1. Whensupportpaymentsaremadethroughthelocaldepositoryor throughtheStateDisbursementUnit,anypaymentorinstallmentofsupport whichbecomesdueandisunpaidunderanysupportorderisdelinquent;and thisunpaidpaymentorinstallment,andallothercostsandfeesherein providedfor,become,afternoticetotheobligorandthetimeforresponseas setforthinthissubsection,afinaljudgmentbyoperationoflaw,whichhas thefullforce,effect,andattributesofajudgmententeredbyacourtinthis stateforwhichexecutionmayissue.Nodeductionshallbemadebythelocal depositoryfromanypaymentmadeforcostsandfeesaccruedinthe judgmentbyoperationoflawprocessunderparagraph(b)untilthetotal amountofsupportpaymentsduetheobligeeunderthejudgmenthasbeen paid.
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2. Acertifiedstatementbythelocaldepositoryevidencingadelinquency insupportpaymentsconstituteevidenceofthefinaljudgmentunderthis paragraph. 3. Thejudgmentunderthisparagraphisafinaljudgmentastoany unpaidpaymentorinstallmentofsupportwhichhasaccrueduptothetime eitherpartyfilesamotionwiththecourttoalterormodifythesupportorder, andsuchjudgmentmaynotbemodifiedbythecourt.Thecourtmaymodify suchjudgmentastoanyunpaidpaymentorinstallmentofsupportwhich accruesafterthedateofthefilingofthemotiontoalterormodifythesupport order.Thissubparagraphdoesnotprohibitthecourtfromprovidingrelief fromthejudgmentpursuanttoRule1.540,FloridaRulesofCivilProcedure. (b)1. Whenanobligoris15daysdelinquentinmakingapaymentor installmentofsupportandtheamountofthedelinquencyisgreaterthanthe periodicpaymentamountorderedbythecourt,thelocaldepositoryshall servenoticeontheobligorinforminghimorherof: a. Thedelinquencyanditsamount. b. Animpendingjudgmentbyoperationoflawagainsthimorherinthe amountofthedelinquencyandallotheramountswhichthereafterbecome dueandareunpaid,togetherwithcostsandaservicechargeofupto$25,for failuretopaytheamountofthedelinquency. c. Theobligorsrighttocontesttheimpendingjudgmentandtheground uponwhichsuchcontestcanbemade. d. Thelocaldepositorysauthoritytoreleaseinformationregardingthe delinquencytooneormorecreditreportingagencies. 2. Thelocaldepositoryshallservethenoticebymailingitbyfirstclass mailtotheobligorathisorherlastaddressofrecordwiththelocal depository.Iftheobligorhasnoaddressofrecordwiththelocaldepository, serviceshallbebypublicationasprovidedinchapter49. 3. Whenserviceofthenoticeismadebymail,serviceiscompleteonthe dateofmailing. (c) Within15daysafterserviceofthenoticeiscomplete,theobligormay filewiththecourtthatissuedthesupportorder,orwiththecourtinthe
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circuitwherethelocaldepositorywhichservedthenoticeislocated,amotion tocontesttheimpendingjudgment.Anobligormaycontesttheimpending judgmentonlyonthegroundofamistakeoffactregardinganerrorin whetheradelinquencyexists,intheamountofthedelinquency,orinthe identityoftheobligor. (d) Thecourtshallheartheobligorsmotiontocontesttheimpending judgmentwithin15daysafterthedateoffilingofthemotion.Uponthe courtsdenialoftheobligorsmotion,theamountofthedelinquencyandall otheramountsthatbecomedue,togetherwithcostsandaservicechargeof upto$25,becomeafinaljudgmentbyoperationoflawagainsttheobligor. Thedepositoryshallchargeinterestattherateestablishedins.55.03onall judgmentsforsupport.Paymentsonjudgmentsshallbeappliedfirsttothe currentchildsupportdue,thentoanydelinquentprincipal,andthento interestonthesupportjudgment. (e) Iftheobligorfailstofileamotiontocontesttheimpendingjudgment withinthetimelimitprescribedinparagraph(c)andfailstopaytheamount ofthedelinquencyandallotheramountswhichthereafterbecomedue, togetherwithcostsandaservicechargeofupto$25,suchamountsbecomea finaljudgmentbyoperationoflawagainsttheobligorattheexpirationofthe timeforfilingamotiontocontesttheimpendingjudgment. (f)1. Uponrequestofanyperson,thelocaldepositoryshallissue,upon paymentofaservicechargeofupto$25,apayoffstatementofthetotal amountdueunderthejudgmentatthetimeoftherequest.Thestatementmay berelieduponbythepersonforupto30daysfromthetimeitisissuedunless proofofsatisfactionofthejudgmentisprovided. 2. Whenthedepositoryrecordsshowthattheobligorsaccountiscurrent, thedepositoryshallrecordasatisfactionofthejudgmentuponrequestofany interestedpersonanduponreceiptoftheappropriaterecordingfee.Any personshallbeentitledtorelyupontherecordingofthesatisfaction. 3. Thelocaldepository,atthedirectionofthedepartment,ortheobligee inanonIVDcase,maypartiallyreleasethejudgmentastospecificreal
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property,andthedepositoryshallrecordapartialreleaseuponreceiptofthe appropriaterecordingfee. 4. Thelocaldepositoryisnotliableforerrorsinitsrecordkeeping,except whenanerrorisaresultofunlawfulactivityorgrossnegligencebytheclerk orhisorheremployees. (g) Thelocaldepositoryshallsendthedepartmentmonthlybyelectronic meansalistofallTitleIVDandnonTitleIVDcasesinwhichajudgmentby operationoflawhasbeenrecordedduringthemonthforwhichthedatais provided.Ataminimum,thedepositoryshallprovidethenamesofthe obligorandobligee,socialsecuritynumbersoftheobligorandobligee,if available,anddepositorynumber. (7) Whenmodificationofanexistingorderofsupportissought,theproof requiredtomodifyasettlementagreementandtheproofrequiredtomodify anawardestablishedbycourtordershallbethesame. (8)(a) Whenanemployeeandanemployerreachanagreementforalump sumsettlementunders.440.20(11),noproceedsofthesettlementshallbe disbursedtotheemployee,norshallanyattorneysfeesbedisbursed,until afterajudgeofcompensationclaimsreviewstheproposeddisbursementand entersanorderfindingthesettlementprovidesforappropriaterecoveryof anysupportarrearage.Theemployee,ortheemployeesattorneyifthe employeeisrepresented,shallsubmitawrittenstatementfromthe departmentthatindicateswhethertheemployeeowesunpaidsupportand,if so,theamountowed.Inaddition,thejudgeofcompensationclaimsmay requiretheemployeetosubmitasimilarstatementfromalocaldepository establishedunders.61.181.Aswornstatementbytheemployeethatall existingsupportobligationshavebeendisclosedisalsorequired.Ifthejudge findstheproposedallocationofsupportrecoveryinsufficient,thepartiesmay amendtheallocationofsupportrecoverywithinthesettlementagreementto maketheallocationofproceedssufficient.TheOfficeoftheJudgesof CompensationClaimsshalladoptproceduralrulestoimplementthis paragraph.
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(b) Inaccordancewiththeprovisionsofs.440.22,anycompensationdue orthatmaybecomedueanemployeeunderchapter440isexemptfrom garnishment,attachment,execution,andassignmentofincome,exceptforthe purposesofenforcingchildorspousalsupportobligations. (9) Unlessotherwiseorderedbythecourtoragreedtobytheparties,the obligationtopaythecurrentchildsupportforthatchildisterminatedwhen thechildreaches18yearsofageorthedisabilityofnonageisremoved.The terminationofthecurrentchildsupportobligationdoesnototherwise terminatetheobligationtopayanyarrearage,retroactivesupport, delinquency,orcostsowedbytheobligor. (10)(a) InaTitleIVDcase,ifanobligationtopaycurrentchildsupportis terminatedduetotheemancipationofthechildandtheobligorowesan arrearage,retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,theobligorshall continuetopayatthesamerateineffectimmediatelypriortoemancipation untilallarrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,andcostsarepaidin fulloruntiltheamountoftheorderismodified.Anyincomededucted amountoramountpaidbytheobligorwhichisinexcessoftheobligationto paycurrentsupportshallbecreditedagainstthearrearages,retroactive support,delinquency,andcostsowedbytheobligor. (b) InaTitleIVDcase,ifanobligationtopaycurrentchildsupportfor multiplechildrenisreducedduetotheemancipationofonechildandthe obligorowesanarrearage,retroactivesupport,delinquency,orcosts,the obligorshallcontinuetopayatthesamerateineffectimmediatelypriorto emancipationuntilallarrearages,retroactivesupport,delinquencies,and costsarepaidinfulloruntiltheamountoftheorderismodified.Anyincome deductedamountoramountpaidbytheobligorwhichisinexcessofthe obligationtopaycurrentsupportshallbecreditedagainstthearrearages, retroactivesupport,delinquency,andcostsowedbytheobligor.Ifan obligationtopaycurrentsupportformorethanonechildisnotreducedwhen achildisemancipatedbecausetheorderdoesnotallocatesupportperchild, thisparagraphdoesnotapply.
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(c) Paragraphs(a)and(b)provideanadditionalremedyforcollectionof unpaidsupportandapplytocasesinwhichasupportorderwasentered before,on,orafterJuly1,2004. (11)(a) Acourtmay,upongoodcauseshown,andwithoutashowingofa substantialchangeofcircumstances,modify,vacate,orsetasideatemporary supportorderbeforeoruponenteringafinalorderinaproceeding. (b) Themodificationofthetemporarysupportordermayberetroactiveto thedateoftheinitialentryofthetemporarysupportorder;tothedateof filingoftheinitialpetitionfordissolutionofmarriage,initialpetitionfor support,initialpetitiondeterminingpaternity,orsupplementalpetitionfor modification;ortoadateprescribedinparagraph(1)(a)ors.61.30(11)(c)or (17),asapplicable. History.ss.1,2,ch.16780,1935;CGL1936Supp.4993(1);s.16,ch.67254; s.16,ch.71241;s.2,ch.7567;s.124,ch.86220;s.5,ch.8795;s.6,ch.88176; s.14,ch.9145;s.5,ch.92138;s.3,ch.93208;s.335,ch.95147;s.15,ch.95 222;s.7,ch.97170;s.40,ch.98397;s.5,ch.99375;s.1,ch.200191;ss.10,11, ch.2001158;s.3,ch.2002173;s.73,ch.2003402;s.1,ch.200447;s.50,ch. 2004265;s.4,ch.2004334;ss.5,6,7,8,ch.200539;s.3,ch.200582;s.1,ch. 2005168;s.11,ch.200861;s.1,ch.200892;s.28,ch.2008111;s.16,ch.2010 187. Note. Formers.65.15. 61.16 Attorneysfees,suitmoney,andcosts. (1) Thecourtmayfromtimetotime,afterconsideringthefinancial resourcesofbothparties,orderapartytopayareasonableamountfor attorneysfees,suitmoney,andthecosttotheotherpartyofmaintainingor defendinganyproceedingunderthischapter,includingenforcementand modificationproceedingsandappeals.Inthosecasesinwhichanactionis broughtforenforcementandthecourtfindsthatthenoncompliantpartyis withoutjustificationintherefusaltofollowacourtorder,thecourtmaynot awardattorneysfees,suitmoney,andcoststothenoncompliantparty.An applicationforattorneysfees,suitmoney,orcosts,whethertemporaryor otherwise,shallnotrequirecorroboratingexperttestimonyinorderto
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supportanawardunderthischapter.Thetrialcourtshallhavecontinuing jurisdictiontomaketemporaryattorneysfeesandcostsawardsreasonably necessarytoprosecuteordefendanappealonthesamebasisandcriteriaas thoughthematterwerependingbeforeitatthetriallevel.Inallcases,the courtmayorderthattheamountbepaiddirectlytotheattorney,whomay enforcetheorderinthatattorneysname.Indeterminingwhethertomake attorneysfeesandcostsawardsattheappellatelevel,thecourtshall primarilyconsidertherelativefinancialresourcesoftheparties,unlessan appellatepartyscauseisdeemedtobefrivolous.InTitleIVDcases, attorneysfees,suitmoney,andcosts,includingfilingfees,recordingfees, mediationcosts,serviceofprocessfees,andotherexpensesincurredbythe clerkofthecircuitcourt,shallbeassessedonlyagainstthenonprevailing obligorafterthecourtmakesadeterminationofthenonprevailingobligors abilitytopaysuchcostsandfees.TheDepartmentofRevenueshallnotbe consideredapartyforpurposesofthissection;however,feesmaybeassessed againstthedepartmentpursuanttos.57.105(1). (2) InanactionbroughtpursuanttoRule3.840,FloridaRulesofCriminal Procedure,whetherdenominateddirectorindirectcriminalcontempt,the courtshallhaveauthorityto: (a) Appointanattorneytoprosecutesaidcontempt. (b) Assessattorneysfeesandcostsagainstthecontemptorafterthecourt makesadeterminationofthecontemptorsabilitytopaysuchcostsandfees. (c) Orderthattheamountbepaiddirectlytotheattorney,whomay enforcetheorderinhisorhername. History.s.1,ch.22676,1945;s.16,ch.67254;s.17,ch.71241;s.6,ch.92 138;s.6,ch.93188;s.4,ch.93208;s.9,ch.94124;s.1,ch.94169;s.1365,ch. 95147;s.6,ch.96183. Note. Formers.65.17. 61.17 Alimonyandchildsupport;additionalmethodforenforcingorders andjudgments;costs,expenses.
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(1) Anorderorjudgmentforthepaymentofalimonyorchildsupportor eitherenteredbyanycourtofthisstatemaybeenforcedbyanotherchancery courtinthisstateinthefollowingmanner: (a) Thepersontowhomsuchalimonyorchildsupportispayableorfor whosebenefititispayablemayprocureacertifiedcopyoftheorderor judgmentandfileitwithacomplaintforenforcementinthecircuitcourtfor thecountyinwhichthepersonresidesorinthecountywheretheperson chargedwiththepaymentofthealimonyorchildsupportresidesorisfound. (b) Ifthepleadingsseekachangeintheamountofthealimonyorchild supportmoney,thecourthasjurisdictiontoadjudicatetheapplicationand changetheorderorjudgment.Insucheventtheclerkofthecircuitcourtin whichtheorderisenteredchangingtheoriginalorderorjudgmentshall transmitacertifiedcopythereoftothecourtoforiginaljurisdiction,andthe newordershallberecordedandfiledintheoriginalactionandbecomeapart thereof.Ifthepleadingsaskforamodificationoftheorderorjudgment,the courtmaydeterminethattheactionshouldbetriedbythecourtenteringthe originalorderorjudgmentandshallthentransfertheactiontothatcourtfor determinationasapartoftheoriginalaction. (c) EnforcementofacasecertifiedunderTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurity Actunderthissectionshallgranttotheregisteringcourtjurisdictionto addressonlythoseissuesallowedandreimbursableunderTitleIVDofthe SocialSecurityAct. (2) Thecourtinwhichsuchanactionisbroughthasjurisdictiontoaward costsandexpensesasareequitable,includingthecostofcertifyingand recordingthejudgmententeredintheactioninthecourtoforiginal jurisdictionandreasonableattorneysfees. (3) Theentryofajudgmentforarrearagesforchildsupport,alimony,or attorneysfeesandcostsdoesnotprecludeasubsequentcontemptproceeding orcertificationofaIVDcaseforintercept,bytheUnitedStatesInternal RevenueService,forfailureofanobligortopaythechildsupport,alimony, attorneysfees,orcostsforwhichthejudgmentwasentered.
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History.ss.1,2,ch.28187,1953;s.16,ch.67254;s.18,ch.71241;s.125, ch.86220;s.7,ch.92138. Note. Formers.65.18. 61.18 Alimonyandchildsupport;defaultinundertakingofbondposted toensurepayment. (1) Whenthereisabreachoftheconditionofanybondpostedtoensure thepaymentofalimonyorchildsupport,eithertemporaryorpermanent,for apartyorminorchildrenoftheparties,thecourtinwhichtheorderwas issuedmayorderpaymenttothepartyentitledtheretooftheprincipalofthe bondorthepartthereofnecessarytocuretheexistingdefaultwithoutfurther noticefromtimetotimewheretheamountisliquidated. (2) Thesuretiesonthebond,orthesherifforclerkholdingacashbond, shallbeorderedtopayintotheregistryofcourt,ortoanypartythecourtmay direct,thesumnecessarytocurethedefault. (3) Iftheprincipalorsuretiesorsherifforclerkfailstopaywithinthe timeandasrequiredbytheorder,thecourtmayenforcethepaymentby contemptagainsttheprincipalorsuretiesonthebondorsherifforclerk withoutfurthernotice,ormayissueanexecutionagainsttheprincipal, sureties,sheriff,orclerkfortheamountunpaidunderanypriororderor orders,butnosuretiesonthebondareliableformorethanthepenaltyofthe bond. History.ss.13,ch.28288,1953;s.16,ch.67254;s.19,ch.71241. Note. Formers.65.19. 61.181 Depositoryforalimonytransactions,support,maintenance,and supportpayments;fees. (1)(a) Theofficeoftheclerkofthecourtshalloperateadepositoryunless thedepositoryisotherwisecreatedbyspecialactoftheLegislatureorunless, priortoJune1,1985,adifferententitywasestablishedtoperformsuch functions.Thedepartmentshall,nolaterthanJuly1,1998,extend participationinthefederalchildsupportcostreimbursementprogramtothe centraldepositoryineachcounty,tothemaximumextentpossibleunder existingfederallaw.Thedepositoryshallreceivereimbursementforservices
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providedunderacooperativeagreementwiththedepartmentpursuanttos. 61.1826.EachdepositoryshallparticipateintheStateDisbursementUnitand shallimplementallstatutoryandcontractualdutiesimposedontheState DisbursementUnit.Eachdepositoryshallreceivefromandtransmittothe StateDisbursementUnitrequireddatathroughtheClerkofCourtChild SupportEnforcementCollectionSystem.PaymentsonnonTitleIVDcases withoutincomedeductionordersshallnotbesenttotheStateDisbursement Unit. (b) Uponrequestbythedepartment,thedepositorycreatedpursuantto paragraph(a)shallestablishanaccountforthereceiptanddisbursementof supportpaymentsforTitleIVDinterstatecases.Thedepartmentshall provideacopyoftheotherstatesorderwiththerequest,andthedepository shalladvisethedepartmentoftheaccountnumberinwritingwithin4 businessdaysafterreceiptoftherequest. (2)(a) ForpaymentsnotrequiredtobeprocessedthroughtheState DisbursementUnit,thedepositoryshallimposeandcollectafeeoneach paymentmadeforreceiving,recording,reporting,disbursing,monitoring,or handlingalimonyorchildsupportpaymentsasrequiredunderthissection. FornonTitleIVDcasesrequiredtobeprocessedbytheStateDisbursement Unitpursuanttothischapter,theStateDisbursementUnitshall,oneach paymentreceived,collectafee,andshalltransmittothedepositoryinwhich thecaseislocated40percentofsuchservicechargeforthedepositorys administration,management,andmaintenanceofsuchcase.Ifapaymentis madetotheStateDisbursementUnitwhichisnotaccompaniedbythe requiredfee,theStateDisbursementUnitshallnotdeductanymoneysfrom thesupportpaymentforpaymentofthefee.Thefeeshallbeaflatfeebased, totheextentpracticable,uponestimatedreasonablecostsofoperation.The feeshallbereducedinanycaseinwhichthefixedfeeresultsinachargeto anypartyofanamountgreaterthan3percentoftheamountofanysupport paymentmadeinsatisfactionoftheamountwhichthepartyisobligatedto pay,exceptthatnofeeshallbelessthan$1normorethan$5perpayment
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made.Thefeeshallbeconsideredbythecourtindeterminingtheamountof supportthattheobligoris,ormaybe,requiredtopay. (b)1. Thefeeimposedinparagraph(a)shallbeincreasedto4percentof thesupportpaymentswhichthepartyisobligatedtopay,exceptthatnofee shallbemorethan$5.25.Thefeeshallbeconsideredbythecourtin determiningtheamountofsupportthattheobligoris,ormaybe,requiredto pay.Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofs.145.022,75percentoftheadditional revenuesgeneratedbythisparagraphshallberemittedmonthlytotheClerk oftheCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystemTrustFund administeredbythedepartmentasprovidedinsubparagraph2.Thesefunds shallbeusedexclusivelyforthedevelopment,implementation,andoperation oftheClerkoftheCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystemtobe operatedbythedepositories,includingtheautomationofcivilcase informationnecessaryfortheStateCaseRegistry.Thedepartmentshall contractwiththeFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksandthedepositoriesto design,establish,operate,upgrade,andmaintaintheautomationofthe depositoriestoinclude,butnotbelimitedto,theprovisionofonlineelectronic transferofinformationtotheIVDagencyasotherwiserequiredbythis chapter.Thedepartmentsobligationtofundtheautomationofthe depositoriesislimitedtothestateshareoffundsavailableintheClerkofthe CourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystemTrustFund.Each depositorycreatedunderthissectionshallfullyparticipateintheClerkofthe CourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystemandtransmitdataina readableformatasrequiredbythecontractbetweentheFloridaAssociation ofCourtClerksandthedepartment. 2. Moneystoberemittedtothedepartmentbythedepositoryshallbe donedailybyelectronicfundstransferandcalculatedasfollows: a. Foreachsupportpaymentoflessthan$33,18.75cents. b. Foreachsupportpaymentbetween$33and$140,anamountequalto 18.75percentofthefeecharged. c. Foreachsupportpaymentinexcessof$140,18.75cents.
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3. Thefeesestablishedbythissectionshallbesetforthandincludedin everyorderofsupportenteredbyacourtofthisstatewhichrequirespayment tobemadeintothedepository. (3)(a) ForpaymentsnotrequiredtobeprocessedthroughtheState DisbursementUnit,thedepositoryshallcollectanddistributeallsupport paymentspaidintothedepositorytotheappropriateparty.OnorafterJuly1, 1998,ifapaymentismadeonaTitleIVDcasewhichisnotaccompaniedby therequiredtransactionfee,thedepositoryshallnotdeductanymoneysfrom thesupportpaymentforpaymentofthefee.Nonpaymentoftherequiredfee shallbeconsideredadelinquency,andwhenthetotaloffeesandcostswhich areduebutnotpaidexceeds$50,thejudgmentbyoperationoflawprocess setforthins.61.14(6)(a)shallbecomeapplicableandoperational.Aspartof itscollectionanddistributionfunctions,thedepositoryshallmaintainrecords listing: 1. Theobligorsname,address,socialsecuritynumber,placeof employment,andanyothersourcesofincome. 2. Theobligeesname,address,andsocialsecuritynumber. 3. Theamountofsupportdueasprovidedinthecourtorder. 4. Thescheduleofpaymentasprovidedinthecourtorder. 5. Theactualamountofeachsupportpaymentreceived,thedateof receipt,theamountdisbursed,andtherecipientofthedisbursement. 6. Theunpaidbalanceofanyarrearagedueasprovidedinthecourt order. 7. Otherrecordsasnecessarytocomplywithfederalreporting requirements. (b) Thedepositorymayrequireapayororobligortocompletean informationform,whichshallrequestthefollowingaboutthepayoror obligorwhoprovidespaymentbycheck: 1. Fullname,address,andhomephonenumber. 2. Driverslicensenumber. 3. Socialsecuritynumber. 4. Name,address,andbusinessphonenumberofobligorsemployer.
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5. Dateofbirth. 6. Weightandheight. 7. SuchotherinformationasmayberequiredbytheStateAttorneyif prosecutionforaninsufficientcheckbecomesnecessary. Ifthedepositoryrequestssuchinformation,andapayororobligordoesnot comply,thedepositorymayrefusetoacceptpersonalchecksfromthepayor orobligor. (c) Partiesusingthedepositoryforsupportpaymentsshallinformthe depositoryofchangesintheirnamesoraddresses.Anobligorshall, additionally,notifythedepositoryofallchangesinemploymentorsourcesof income,includingthepayorsnameandaddress,andchangesintheamounts ofincomereceived.Notificationofallchangesshallbemadeinwritingtothe depositorywithin7daysofachange. (d) Whentimesharingofachildisrelinquishedbyaparentwhois entitledtoreceivechildsupportmoneysfromthedepositorytothecustodyof alicensedorregisteredlongtermcarechildagency,thatagencymayrequest fromthecourtanorderdirectingchildsupportpaymentsthatwould otherwisebedistributedtotheparentbedistributedtotheagencyforthe periodoftimethatthechildiswiththeagency.Thereafter,paymentsshallbe distributedtotheagencyasiftheagencyweretheparentuntilfurtherorder ofthecourt. (4) ThedepositoryshallprovidetotheIVDagency,atleastonceamonth, alistingofIVDaccountswhichidentifiesalldelinquentaccounts,theperiod ofdelinquency,andtotalamountofdelinquency.Thelistshallbein alphabeticalorderbynameofobligor,shallincludetheobligeesnameand casenumber,andshallbeprovidedatnocosttotheIVDagency. (5) Thedepositoryshallacceptasupportpaymenttenderedintheformof acheckdrawnontheaccountofapayororobligor,unlessthepayoror obligorhaspreviouslyremittedacheckwhichwasreturnedtothedepository duetolackofsufficientfundsintheaccount.Ifthepayororobligorhashada checkreturnedforthisreason,thedepositoryshallacceptpaymentbycash,
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cashierscheck,ormoneyorder,ormayacceptacheckupondepositbythe payororobligorofanamountequalto1monthspayment.Uponpaymentby cash,cashierscheck,ormoneyorder,thedepositoryshalldisbursethe proceedstotheobligeewithin2workingdays.Paymentsdrawnbycheckon theaccountofapayororobligorshallbedisbursedwithin4workingdays. Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofs.28.243,theadministratorofthe depositoryshallnotbepersonallyliableifthechecktenderedbythepayoror obligorisnotpaidbythebank. (6) Certifiedcopiesofpaymentrecordsmaintainedbyadepositoryshall withoutfurtherproofbeadmittedintoevidenceinanylegalproceedingin thisstate. (7) ThedepositoryshallprovidetotheTitleIVDagencythedate providedbyapayor,asrequiredins.61.1301,foreachpaymentreceivedand forwardedtotheagency.Ifnodateisprovidedbythepayor,thedepository shallprovidethedateofreceiptbythedepositoryandshallreporttotheTitle IVDagencythosepayorswhofailtoprovidethedatethedeductionwas made. (8) OnorbeforeJuly1,1994,thedepositoryshallprovideinformation requiredbythischaptertobetransmittedtotheTitleIVDagencybyonline electronictransmissionpursuanttorulespromulgatedbytheTitleIVD agency. (9) Iftheincreaseinfeesasprovidedbyparagraph(2)(b)expiresoris otherwiseterminated,thedepositoryshallnotberequiredtoprovidetheTitle IVDagencythedateprovidedbyapayorasrequiredbys.61.1301. (10) Compliancewiththerequirementsofthissectionshallbeincludedas partoftheannualcountyauditrequiredpursuanttos.218.39. History.s.1,ch.73112;s.1,ch.75148;s.4,ch.84110;s.5,ch.85178;s. 126,ch.86220;s.1,ch.87358;s.24,ch.88176;s.3,ch.89183;s.9,ch.92138; s.14,ch.93208;s.2,ch.96190;s.5,ch.96305;s.8,ch.97170;ss.10,42,ch.98 397;s.1,ch.995;s.6,ch.99375;s.9,ch.2000158;s.12,ch.2001158;s.4,ch. 2002173;s.74,ch.2003402;s.51,ch.2004265;s.4,ch.2004305;s.5,ch.2004 334;s.12,ch.200861.
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61.1811 ClerkoftheCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystem TrustFund.ThereisherebycreatedtheClerkoftheCourtChildSupport EnforcementCollectionSystemTrustFundtobeusedtodepositthe departmentsshareofthefeesgeneratedins.61.181(2)(b). History.s.8,ch.92138. 61.1812 ChildSupportIncentiveTrustFund. (1) TheChildSupportIncentiveTrustFundisherebycreated,tobe administeredbytheDepartmentofRevenue.Allchildsupportenforcement incentiveearningsandthatportionofthestateshareofTitleIVApublic assistancecollectionsrecoveredinfiscalyear19961997bytheTitleIVD programofthedepartmentwhichisinexcessoftheamountestimatedbythe February1997SocialServicesEstimatingConferencetoberecoveredinfiscal year19961997shallbecreditedtothetrustfund,andnootherreceipts,except interestearnings,shallbecreditedthereto.Forfiscalyearsbeginningwith 19971998,inadditiontoincentiveearningsandinterestearnings,thatportion ofthestateshareofTitleIVApublicassistancecollectionsrecoveredineach fiscalyearbytheTitleIVDprogramofthedepartmentwhichisinexcessof theamountestimatedbytheFebruary1997SocialServicesEstimating Conferencetoberecoveredinfiscalyear19971998shallbecreditedtothe trustfund.Thepurposeofthetrustfundistoaccountforfederalincentive paymentstothestateforchildsupportenforcementandtosupportthe activitiesofthechildsupportenforcementprogramunderTitleIVDofthe SocialSecurityAct.Thedepartmentshallinvestthemoneyinthetrustfund pursuanttos.17.61andretainallinterestearningsinthetrustfund.The departmentshallseparatelyaccountforreceiptscreditedtothetrustfund. Whenallgeneralrevenueappropriationsforthechildsupportenforcement programhavebeenshiftedtothetrustfund,thenannuallythereafter,onJune 30,ifrevenuesdepositedintothetrustfund,includingfederalchildsupport incentiveearnings,haveexceededstateexpendituresforthechildsupport enforcementprogramadministeredbythedepartmentfortheprior12month period,therevenuesinexcessofcashflowneedsaretransferredtothe GeneralRevenueFund.
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(2) Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofs.216.301,andpursuanttos. 216.351,anybalanceinthetrustfundattheendofanyfiscalyearshallremain inthetrustfundandshallbeavailableforcarryingoutthepurposesofthe trustfund. History.s.1,ch.95111;s.9,ch.97170;s.4,ch.97259;ss.2,38,ch.9846; s.3,ch.2000157;s.10,ch.2000158;s.4,ch.200582. 61.1814 ChildSupportEnforcementApplicationandProgramRevenue TrustFund. (1) TheChildSupportEnforcementApplicationandProgramRevenue TrustFundisherebycreated,tobeadministeredbytheDepartmentof Revenue.ThepurposeofthetrustfundistoaccountforTitleIVDprogram incomeandtosupporttheactivitiesofthechildsupportenforcement programunderTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityAct.Thedepartmentshall investthemoneyinthetrustfundpursuanttos.17.61andretainallinterest earningsinthetrustfund.Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofs.216.301,and pursuanttos.216.351,anybalanceinthetrustfundattheendofanyfiscal yearshallremaininthetrustfundandshallbeavailableforcarryingoutthe purposesofthetrustfund.Inaccordancewithfederalrequirements,the federalshareofprogramincomeshallbecreditedtotheFederalGovernment. (2) WiththeexceptionoffeesrequiredtobedepositedintheClerkofthe CourtChildSupportEnforcementCollectionSystemTrustFundunders. 61.181(2)(b)andcollectionsdeterminedtobeundistributableorunidentifiable unders.409.2558,thefundshallbeusedforthedepositofTitleIVDprogram incomereceivedbythedepartment.Eachtypeofprogramincomereceived shallbeaccountedforseparately.Programincomereceivedbythe departmentincludes,butisnotlimitedto: (a) Applicationfeesofnonpublicassistanceapplicantsforchildsupport enforcementservices; (b) Courtorderedcostsrecoveredfromchildsupportobligors; (c) Interestonchildsupportcollections;
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(d) Thebalanceoffeesreceivedunders.61.181(2)(a)onnonTitleIVD casesrequiredtobeprocessedthroughtheStateDisbursementUnitafterthe clerksshareispaid; (e) Finesimposedunderss.409.256(7)(b),409.2564(7),and409.2578;and (f) Theannualfeerequiredunders.409.2567. History.s.46,ch.96418;s.10,ch.97170;s.6,ch.2004334;s.9,ch.2005 39;s.2,ch.200785. 61.1816 ChildSupportClearingTrustFund. (1) TheChildSupportClearingTrustFundisherebycreated,tobe administeredbytheDepartmentofRevenue.Fundsshallbecreditedtothe trustfundfromchildsupportpayments.Thepurposeofthetrustfundisto accountforchildsupportcollectionspendingdistributiontocustodialparents andotherstatetrustfunds. (2) Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofs.216.301andpursuanttos. 216.351,anybalanceinthetrustfundattheendofanyfiscalyearshallremain inthetrustfundandshallbeavailableforcarryingoutthepurposesofthe trustfund. History.s.1,ch.95371;s.48,ch.96418. Note. Formers.409.2582. 61.1824 StateDisbursementUnit. (1) TheStateDisbursementUnitisherebycreatedandshallbeoperated bytheDepartmentofRevenueorbyacontractorresponsibledirectlytothe department.TheStateDisbursementUnitshallberesponsibleforthe collectionanddisbursementofpaymentsfor: (a) AllsupportcasesenforcedbythedepartmentpursuanttoTitleIVDof theSocialSecurityAct;and (b) Allchildsupportcasesnotbeingenforcedbythedepartmentpursuant toTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityActinwhichtheinitialsupportorderwas issuedinthisstateonorafterJanuary1,1994,andinwhichtheobligorschild supportobligationisbeingpaidthroughincomededuction.
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(2) TheStateDisbursementUnitmustbeoperatedincoordinationwith thedepartmentschildsupportenforcementautomatedsysteminTitleIVD cases. (3) TheStateDisbursementUnitshallperformthefollowingfunctions: (a) Disburseallreceiptsfromintercepts,including,butnotlimitedto, UnitedStatesInternalRevenueService,unemploymentcompensation,lottery, andadministrativeoffsetintercepts. (b) Provideemployersandpayorswithoneaddresstowhichallincome deductioncollectionsaresent. (c) Whenthereismorethanoneincomedeductionorderbeingenforced againstthesameobligorbythepayor,allocatetheamountsavailablefor incomedeductioninthemannersetforthins.61.1301. (d) Totheextentfeasible,useautomatedproceduresforthecollectionand disbursementofsupportpayments,including,butnotlimitedto,having proceduresfor: 1. Receiptofpaymentsfromobligors,employers,otherstatesand jurisdictions,andotherentities. 2. Timelydisbursementofpaymentstoobligees,thedepartment,and otherstateTitleIVDagencies. 3. Accurateidentificationofpaymentsourceandamount. 4. Furnishinganyparent,uponrequest,timelyinformationonthecurrent statusofsupportpaymentsunderanorderrequiringpaymentstobemadeby ortotheparent,exceptthatincasesdescribedinparagraph(1)(b),priortothe datetheStateDisbursementUnitbecomesfullyoperational,theState DisbursementUnitshallnotberequiredtoconvertandmaintainin automatedformrecordsofpaymentskeptpursuanttos.61.181. 5. Electronicdisbursementofsupportpaymentstoobligees.TheState DisbursementUnitshallnotifyobligeesofelectronicdisbursementoptions. AnypaymentsmadetotheStateDisbursementUnitthatareowedtothe obligeeshallbedisbursedelectronically.Theobligeemaydesignatea personalaccountfordepositofpayments.Iftheobligeedoesnotdesignatea
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personalaccount,theStateDisbursementUnitshalldepositanypayments intoastoredvalueaccountthatcanbeaccessedbytheobligee. (e) Informationregardingdisbursementmustbetransmittedinthe followingmanner: 1. InTitleIVDcases,theStateDisbursementUnitshalltransmit,inan electronicformatasprescribedbythedepartment,allrequiredinformationto thedepartmentonthesamebusinessdaytheinformationisreceivedfromthe employerorothersourceofperiodicincome,ifsufficientinformation identifyingthepayeeisprovided.Thedepartmentshalldetermine distributionallocationofacollectionandshallelectronicallytransmitthat informationtotheStateDisbursementUnit,whereupontheState DisbursementUnitshalldisbursethecollection.TheStateDisbursementUnit maydelaythedisbursementofpaymentstowardarrearagesuntilthe resolutionofanytimelyappealwithrespecttosucharrearages.TheState DisbursementUnitmaydelaythedisbursementofTitleIVDcollectionsuntil authorizationbytheTitleIVDagencyhasbeenreceived. 2. InnonTitleIVDcases,paymentinformationisnottransmittedtothe department.TheStateDisbursementUnitmaydelaythedisbursementof paymentstowardarrearagesuntiltheresolutionofanytimelyappealwith respecttosucharrearages. (f) Reconcileallcashreceiptsandalldisbursementsdailyandprovidethe departmentwithadailyreconciliationreportinaformatasprescribedbythe department. (g) Disbursesupportpaymentstoforeigncountriesasmayberequired. (h) Receiveandconvertsupportpaymentsmadeinforeigncurrency. (i) Remittothedepartmentpaymentsforcostsduethedepartment. (j) Handleinsufficientfundspayments,claimsoflostorstolenchecks, andstoppaymentorders. (k) Issuebillingnoticesandstatementsofaccount,inaccordancewith federalrequirements,inaformatandfrequencyprescribedbythedepartment topersonswhopayandreceivechildsupportinTitleIVDcases.
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(l) Providethedepartmentwithaweeklyreportthatsummarizesand totalsallfinancialtransactionactivity. (m) Providetollfreeaccesstocustomerassistancerepresentativesandan automatedvoiceresponsesystemthatwillenablethepartiestoasupportcase toobtainpaymentinformation. (4) Forcasesinwhichtheobligororpayorfailstosubmitpayment directlytothecentraladdressprovidedbytheStateDisbursementUnit,the depositoriesshallhaveproceduresforacceptingasupportpaymenttendered intheformofcashoracheckdrawnontheaccountofapayororobligor, unlessthepayororobligorhaspreviouslyremittedacheckwhichwas returnedtothedepositoryduetolackofsufficientfundsintheaccount.Ifthe payororobligorhashadacheckreturnedforthisreason,thedepositoryshall acceptpaymentbycash,cashierscheck,ormoneyorder,ormayaccepta checkupondepositbythepayororobligorofanamountequalto1months payment.Uponpaymentbycash,cashierscheck,ormoneyorder,the depositoryshallremitthepaymenttotheStateDisbursementUnitwithin1 businessdayafterreceipt. (5) ObligeesreceivingpaymentsthroughtheStateDisbursementUnit shallinformtheStateDisbursementUnitofchangesintheirnamesand addresses.NotificationofallchangesmustbemadedirectlytotheState DisbursementUnitwithin7businessdaysafterachange.InTitleIVDcases, theStateDisbursementUnitshalltransmittheinformationtothedepartment, inanelectronicformatprescribedbythedepartment,within1businessday afterreceipt. (6) Allsupportpaymentsforcasestowhichtherequirementsofthis sectionapplyshallbemadepayabletoanddeliveredtotheState DisbursementUnit. (a) Anemployerthatisrequiredtoremittaxpaymentselectronicallyto thedepartmentunders.213.755ors.443.163shallremitsupportpayments deductedpursuanttoanincomedeductionorderorincomedeductionnotice andprovideassociatedcasedatatotheStateDisbursementUnitbyelectronic meansapprovedbythedepartment.Thedepartmentmaywaivethe
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requirementtoremitpaymentselectronicallyforanemployerthatisunableto complydespitegoodfaitheffortsorduetocircumstancesbeyondthe employersreasonablecontrol.Groundsforapprovingawaiverinclude,but arenotlimitedto,circumstancesinwhich: 1. Theemployerdoesnothaveacomputerthatmeetstheminimum standardsnecessaryforelectronicremittance. 2. Additionaltimeisneededtoprogramtheemployerscomputer. 3. Theemployerdoesnotcurrentlyfiledataelectronicallywithany businessorgovernmentagency. 4. Complianceconflictswiththeemployersbusinessprocedures. 5. Compliancewouldcauseafinancialhardship. (b) Thedepartmentshalladoptbyrulestandardsforelectronic remittance,datatransfer,andwaiversthat,totheextentfeasible,are consistentwiththedepartmentsrulesforelectronicfilingandremittanceof taxesunderss.213.755and443.163.Awaivergrantedbythedepartmentfrom therequirementtofileandremitelectronicallyunders.213.755ors.443.163 constitutesawaiverfromtherequirementunderthissubsection. (7) Notwithstandinganyotherstatutoryprovisiontothecontrary,funds receivedbytheStateDisbursementUnitshallbeheld,administered,and disbursedbytheStateDisbursementUnitpursuanttotheprovisionsofthis chapter. History.s.43,ch.98397;s.7,ch.99375;s.13,ch.2001158;s.10,ch.2005 39;s.3,ch.200785;s.2,ch.200892;ss.21,22,54,ch.2008153. 61.1825 StateCaseRegistry. (1) TheDepartmentofRevenueoritsagentshalloperateandmaintaina StateCaseRegistryasprovidedby42U.S.C.s.654A.TheStateCaseRegistry mustcontainrecordsfor: (a) Eachcaseinwhichservicesarebeingprovidedbythedepartmentas thestatesTitleIVDagency;and (b) ByOctober1,1998,eachsupportorderestablishedormodifiedinthe stateonorafterOctober1,1998,inwhichservicesarenotbeingprovidedby theTitleIVDagency.
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The department shall maintain that part of the State Case Registry that includes support order information for Title IVD cases on the departments childsupportenforcementautomatedsystem. (2) ByOctober1,1998,foreachsupportorderestablishedormodifiedby acourtofthisstateonorafterOctober1,1998,thedepositoryforthecourt thatentersthesupportorderinanonTitleIVDcaseshallprovide,inan electronicformatprescribedbythedepartment,thefollowinginformationto thatcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistrythatreceives,maintains,and transmitssupportorderinformationfornonTitleIVDcases: (a) Thenamesoftheobligor,obligee,andchildorchildren; (b) Thesocialsecuritynumbersoftheobligor,obligee,andchildor children; (c) Thedatesofbirthoftheobligor,obligee,andchildorchildren; (d) Whetherafamilyviolenceindicatorispresent; (e) Thedatethesupportorderwasestablishedormodified; (f) Thecaseidentificationnumber,whichisthetwodigitnumericcounty codefollowedbythecivilcircuitcasenumber; (g) Thefederalinformationprocessingsystemnumericdesignationfor thecountyandstatewherethesupportorderwasestablishedormodified; and (h) AnyotherdataasmayberequiredbytheUnitedStatesSecretaryof HealthandHumanServices. (3)(a) Forthepurposeofthissection,afamilyviolenceindicatormustbe placedonarecordwhen: 1. Apartyexecutesaswornstatementrequestingthatafamilyviolence indicatorbeplacedonthatpartysrecordwhichstatesthatthepartyhas reasontobelievethatreleaseofinformationtotheFederalCaseRegistrymay resultinphysicaloremotionalharmtothepartyorthechild;or 2. Atemporaryorfinalinjunctionforprotectionagainstdomesticviolence hasbeengrantedpursuanttos.741.30(6),aninjunctionforprotectionagainst domesticviolencehasbeenissuedbyacourtofaforeignstatepursuanttos.
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741.315,oratemporaryorfinalinjunctionforprotectionagainstrepeat violencehasbeengrantedpursuanttos.784.046;or 3. ThedepartmenthasreceivedinformationonaTitleIVDcasefromthe DomesticViolenceandRepeatViolenceInjunctionStatewideVerification System,establishedpursuanttos.784.046(8)(b),thatacourthasgranteda partyadomesticviolenceorrepeatviolenceinjunction. (b) Beforethefamilyviolenceindicatorcanberemovedfromarecord,the protectedpersonmustbeaffordednoticeandanopportunitytoappearbefore thecourtontheissueofwhetherthedisclosurewillresultinharm. (4) Thedepository,usingstandardizeddataelements,shallprovidethe supportorderinformationrequiredbysubsection(2)totheentitythat maintainsthenonTitleIVDsupportorderinformationfortheStateCase Registryatafrequencyandinaformatprescribedbythedepartment. (5) TheentitythatmaintainsStateCaseRegistryinformationfornonTitle IVDcasesshallmaketheinformationavailabletothedepartmentina readableandsearchableelectronicformatthatiscompatiblewiththe departmentsautomatedchildsupportenforcementsystem. (6) StateCaseRegistryinformationmustbetransmittedelectronicallyto theFederalCaseRegistryofChildSupportOrdersbythedepartmentina mannerandfrequencyprescribedbytheUnitedStatesSecretaryofHealth andHumanServices. History.s.44,ch.98397;s.8,ch.99375;s.14,ch.2001158;s.39,ch.2008 61. 61.1826 ProcurementofservicesforStateDisbursementUnitandthenon TitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistry;contractsandcooperative agreements;penalties;withholdingpayment. (1) LEGISLATIVEFINDINGS.TheLegislaturefindsthattheclerksof courtplayavitalrole,asessentialparticipantsintheestablishment, modification,collection,andenforcementofchildsupport,insecuringthe health,safety,andwelfareofthechildrenofthisstate.TheLegislaturefurther findsanddeclaresthat:
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(a) Itisinthestatesbestinteresttopreservetheessentialroleofthe clerksofcourtindisbursingchildsupportpaymentsandmaintainingofficial recordsofchildsupportordersenteredbythecourtsofthisstate. (b) Asofficialrecordkeeperformattersrelatingtocourtorderedchild support,theclerksofcourtarenecessarypartiestoobtaining,safeguarding, andprovidingchildsupportpaymentandsupportorderinformation. (c) AsprovidedbythefederalPersonalResponsibilityandWork OpportunityReconciliationActof1996,thestatemustestablishandoperatea StateCaseRegistryinfullcompliancewithfederallawbyOctober1,1998, andaStateDisbursementUnitbyOctober1,1999. (d) Noncompliancewithfederallawcouldresultinasubstantiallossof federalfundsforthestateschildsupportenforcementprogramandthe temporaryassistanceforneedyfamilieswelfareblockgrant. (e) Thepotentiallossofsubstantialfederalfundsposesadirectand immediatethreattothehealth,safety,andwelfareofthechildrenandcitizens ofthestateandconstitutesanemergencyforpurposesofs.287.057(3)(a). (f) Theclerksofcourtmaintaintheofficialpaymentrecordofthecourtfor amountsreceived,paymentscredited,arrearagesowed,liensattached,and currentmailingaddressesofallparties,payor,obligor,andpayee. (g) TheclerksofcourthaveestablishedastatewideClerkofCourtChild SupportEnforcementCollectionSystemfortheautomationofallpayment processingusingstateandlocalgovernmentfundsasprovidedunders. 61.181(2)(b)1. (h) TheLegislatureacknowledgestheimprovementsmadebyandthe crucialroleoftheClerkoftheCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollection SysteminspeedingpaymentstothechildrenofFlorida. (i) Thereisnoviablealternativetocontinuingtheroleoftheclerksof courtincollecting,safeguarding,andprovidingessentialchildsupport paymentinformation. Forthesereasons,theLegislatureherebydirectstheDepartmentofRevenue, subject to the provisions of subsection (5), to contract with the Florida
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Association of Court Clerks and each depository to perform duties with respect to the operation and maintenance of a State Disbursement Unit and thenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistryasfurtherprovided bythissection. (2) COOPERATIVEAGREEMENTS.Eachdepositoryshallenterintoa standardcooperativeagreementwiththedepartmentforparticipationinthe StateDisbursementUnitandthenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCase RegistrythroughtheClerkofCourtChildSupportEnforcementCollection Systemwithin60daysaftertheeffectivedateofthissection.Thecooperative agreementshallbeauniformdocument,mutuallydevelopedbythe departmentandtheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,thatappliestoall depositoriesandcomplieswithallstateandfederalrequirements.Each depositoryshallalsoenterintoawrittenagreementwiththeFlorida AssociationofCourtClerksandthedepartmentwithin60daysafterthe effectivedateofthissectionthatrequireseachdepositorytoparticipatefully intheStateDisbursementUnitandthenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheState CaseRegistry. (3) CONTRACT.TheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksshallenterinto awrittencontractwiththedepartmentthatfullycomplieswithallfederaland statelawswithin60daysaftertheeffectivedateofthissection.Thecontract shallbemutuallydevelopedbythedepartmentandtheFloridaAssociationof CourtClerks.Asrequiredbys.287.057and45C.F.R.s.74.43,any subcontractsenteredintobytheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,except foracontractbetweentheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksanditstotally ownedsubsidiarycorporation,mustbeprocuredthroughcompetitive bidding. (4) COOPERATIVEAGREEMENTANDCONTRACTTERMS.The contractbetweentheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksandthedepartment, andcooperativeagreementsenteredintobythedepositoriesandthe department,mustcontain,butarenotlimitedto,thefollowingterms: (a) Theinitialtermofthecontractandcooperativeagreementsisfor5 years.Thesubsequenttermofthecontractandcooperativeagreementsisfor
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3years,withtheoptionoftwo1yearrenewalperiods,atthesolediscretionof thedepartment. (b) ThedutiesandresponsibilitiesoftheFloridaAssociationofCourt Clerks,thedepositories,andthedepartment. (c) Unders.287.058(1)(a),allprovidersandsubcontractorsshallsubmitto thedepartmentdirectly,orthroughtheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,a reportofmonthlyexpendituresinaformatprescribedbythedepartmentand insufficientdetailforaproperpreauditandpostauditthereof. (d) Allprovidersandsubcontractorsshallsubmittothedepartment directly,orthroughtheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,management reportsinaformatprescribedbythedepartment. (e) Allsubcontractorsshallcomplywithchapter280,asmayberequired. (f) FederalfinancialparticipationforeligibleTitleIVDexpenditures incurredbytheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksandthedepositoriesshall beatthemaximumlevelpermittedbyfederallawforexpendituresincurred fortheprovisionofservicesinsupportofchildsupportenforcementin accordancewith45C.F.R.part74andFederalOfficeofManagementand BudgetCircularsA87andA122andbasedonanannualcostallocation studyofeachdepository.Thedepositoriesshallsubmitdirectly,orthrough theFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,claimsforTitleIVDexpenditures monthlytothedepartmentinastandardizedformatasprescribedbythe department.TheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksshallcontractwitha certifiedpublicaccountingfirm,selectedbytheFloridaAssociationofCourt Clerksandthedepartment,toauditandcertifyquarterlytothedepartment allclaimsforexpendituressubmittedbythedepositoriesforTitleIVD reimbursement. (g) Uponterminationofthecontractsbetweenthedepartmentandthe FloridaAssociationofCourtClerksorthedepositories,theFlorida AssociationofCourtClerks,itsagents,andthedepositoriesshallassistthe departmentinmakinganorderlytransitiontoaprivatevendor. (h) Interestonlatepaymentbythedepartmentshallbeinaccordance withs.215.422.
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IfeitherthedepartmentortheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksobjectstoa term of the standard cooperative agreement or contract specified in subsections(2)and(3),thedisputedtermortermsshallbepresentedjointly by the parties to the Attorney General or the Attorney Generals designee, who shall act as special magistrate. The special magistrate shall resolve the disputein writingwithin 10days. The resolutionof a dispute by the special magistrateisbindingonthedepartmentandtheFloridaAssociationofCourt Clerks. (5) CONTRACTTERMINATION.Ifanyofthefollowingeventsoccur, thedepartmentmaydiscontinueitsplanstocontract,orterminateitscontract, withtheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksandthedepositoriesupon30 dayswrittennoticebythedepartmentandmay,throughcompetitive bidding,procureservicesfromaprivatevendortoperformfunctions necessaryforthedepartmenttooperatetheStateDisbursementUnitandthe nonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistrywithaminimumamount ofdisruptioninservicetothechildrenandcitizensofthestate: (a) ReceiptbythedepartmentoffinalnoticebytheUnitedStates SecretaryofHealthandHumanServicesorthesecretarysdesigneethatthe contractualarrangementbetweenthedepartment,theFloridaAssociationof CourtClerks,andthedepositoriesdoesnotsatisfyfederalrequirementsfora StateDisbursementUnitoraStateCaseRegistryandthatthestatesTitleIV DStatePlanwillnotbeapproved,orthatfederalTitleIVDfundingisnot madeavailabletofundthenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCase RegistryortheStateDisbursementUnit; (b) TheFloridaAssociationofCourtClerks,adepository,orany subcontractorfailstocomplywithanymaterialcontractualtermorstateor federalrequirement; (c) ThenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCaseRegistryisnot establishedandoperational,consistentwiththetermsofthecontract,by October1,1998;or (d) TheStateDisbursementUnitisnotestablishedandoperational, consistentwiththetermsofthecontract,byOctober1,1999.
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Ifeithereventspecifiedinparagraph(a)occurs,thedepositoriesarerelieved of all responsibilities and duties under this chapter relating to Title IVD paymentprocessinganddatatransmissiontothedepartment. (6) PARTICIPATIONBYDEPOSITORIES. (a) EachdepositoryshallparticipateinthenonTitleIVDcomponentof theStateCaseRegistrybyusinganautomatedsystemcompatiblewiththe departmentsautomatedchildsupportenforcementsystem. (b) ForparticipationintheStateDisbursementUnit,eachdepository shall: 1. UsetheCLERCSystem; 2. ReceiveelectronicallyandrecordpaymentinformationfromtheState DisbursementUnitforeachsupportorderenteredbythecourt. (7) TITLEIVDPROGRAMINCOME.Pursuantto45C.F.R.s.304.50,all transactionfeesandinterestincomerealizedbytheStateDisbursementUnit constituteandmustbereportedasprogramincomeunderfederallawand mustbetransmittedtotheTitleIVDagencyfordepositintheChildSupport EnforcementApplicationandProgramRevenueTrustFund. (8) PENALTIES.AlldepositoriesmustparticipateintheState DisbursementUnitandthenonTitleIVDcomponentoftheStateCase Registryasprovidedinthischapter.If,afternoticeandanopportunitytocure anotherwisecurabledefault,adepositoryfailstocomplywiththematerial termsofthecooperativeagreement,thefailuretocomplysubjectsthecounty officerorofficersresponsibleforthedepositorytothesanctionsprovidedin Art.IVoftheStateConstitution.However,nocountyofficerorofficersshall besubjecttosanctionsunderArt.IVoftheStateConstitutionforany noncurabledefaultresultingfromcircumstancesorconditionsoutsidethe controlofthedepository. (9) WITHHOLDINGPAYMENTUNDERCONTRACTS.IftheFlorida AssociationofCourtClerks,itsagent,asubcontractor,oradepositorydoes notcomplywithanymaterialcontractualtermorstateorfederalrequirement, thedepartmentmaywithholdfundsotherwisedueundertheindividual contractwiththeFloridaAssociationofCourtClerksortheindividual
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cooperativeagreementwiththedepository,orboth,atthedepartments election,toenforcecompliance.Thedepartmentshallprovidewrittennotice ofnoncompliancebeforewithholdingfunds.Within10businessdaysafter receiptofwrittennotificationofnoncompliance,thedepartmentmustbe providedwithawrittenproposedcorrectiveactionplan.Within10business daysafterreceiptofacorrectiveactionplan,thedepartmentshallacceptthe planorallow5businessdayswithinwhicharevisedplanmaybesubmitted. Uponthedepartmentsacceptanceofacorrectiveactionplan,theagreed uponplanmustbefullycompletedwithin30businessdaysunlessalonger periodispermittedbythedepartment.Ifaproposedcorrectiveactionplanis notsubmitted,isnotaccepted,orisnotfullycompleted,anyfundswithheld bythedepartmentfornoncomplianceareforfeitedtothedepartment. Withholdingorforfeitureoffundsmaybecontestedbyfilingapetitionor requestforahearingundertheapplicableprovisionsofchapter120.Forthe purposesofthissection,nopartytoadisputeinvolvinglessthan$5,000in withheldorforfeitedfundsisdeemedtobesubstantiallyaffectedbythe disputeortohaveasubstantialinterestinthedecisionresolvingthedispute. History.s.45,ch.98397;s.9,ch.99375;s.10,ch.2001278;ss.5,6,ch. 2002173;s.1,ch.2002207;s.54,ch.200411;s.5,ch.2010151. 61.1827 Identifyinginformationconcerningapplicantsforandrecipients ofchildsupportservices. (1) Anyinformationthatrevealstheidentityofapplicantsfororrecipients ofchildsupportservices,includingthename,address,andtelephonenumber ofsuchpersons,heldbyanonTitleIVDcountychildsupportenforcement agencyisconfidentialandexemptfroms.119.07(1)ands.24(a)ofArt.Iofthe StateConstitution.TheuseordisclosureofsuchinformationbythenonTitle IVDcountychildsupportenforcementagencyislimitedtothepurposes directlyconnectedwith: (a) Anyinvestigation,prosecution,orcriminalorcivilproceeding connectedwiththeadministrationofanynonTitleIVDcountychildsupport enforcementprogram;
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(b) Mandatorydisclosureofidentifyingandlocationinformationas providedins.61.13(7)bythenonTitleIVDcountychildsupport enforcementagencywhenprovidingnonTitleIVDservices; (c) Mandatorydisclosureofinformationasrequiredbyss.409.2577, 61.181,61.1825,and61.1826andTitleIVDoftheSocialSecurityAct;or (d) Disclosuretoanauthorizedperson,asdefinedin45C.F.R.s.303.15, forpurposesofenforcinganystateorfederallawwithrespecttotheunlawful takingorrestraintofachildormakingorenforcingaparentingplan.Asused inthisparagraph,thetermauthorizedpersonincludesaparentwithwhom thechilddoesnotcurrentlyreside,unlessacourthasenteredanorderunder s.741.30,s.741.31,ors.784.046. (2) ThenonTitleIVDcountychildsupportenforcementagencyshallnot discloseinformationthatidentifiesbynameandaddressanapplicantforor recipientofchildsupportservicesorthewhereaboutsofsuchpartyorchildto anotherpersonagainstwhomaprotectiveorderwithrespecttotheformer partyorthechildhasbeenenteredifthecountyagencyhasreasontobelieve thatthereleaseofinformationtosuchpersoncouldresultinphysicalor emotionalharmtothepartyorthechild. (3) Asusedinthissection,nonTitleIVDcountychildsupport enforcementagencymeansadepartment,division,orotheragencyofa countygovernmentwhichisoperatedbythecounty,excludinglocal depositoriespursuanttos.61.181operatedbytheclerkofthecourt,to providechildsupportenforcementanddepositoryservicestocounty residents. History.s.1,ch.2001131;s.10,ch.2005239;s.1,ch.2006156;s.13,ch. 200861. 61.183 Mediationofcertaincontestedissues. (1) Inanyproceedinginwhichtheissuesofparentalresponsibility, primaryresidence,accessto,visitationwith,orsupportofachildare contested,thecourtmayreferthepartiestomediationinaccordancewith rulespromulgatedbytheSupremeCourt.InTitleIVDcases,anycosts, includingfilingfees,recordingfees,mediationcosts,serviceofprocessfees,
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andotherexpensesincurredbytheclerkofthecircuitcourt,shallbeassessed onlyagainstthenonprevailingobligorafterthecourtmakesadetermination ofthenonprevailingobligorsabilitytopaysuchcostsandfees. (2) Ifanagreementisreachedbythepartiesonthecontestedissues,a consentorderincorporatingtheagreementshallbepreparedbythemediator andsubmittedtothepartiesandtheirattorneysforreview.Uponapprovalby theparties,theconsentordershallbereviewedbythecourtand,ifapproved, entered.Thereafter,theconsentordermaybeenforcedinthesamemanneras anyothercourtorder. (3) Anyinformationfromthefiles,reports,casesummaries,mediators notes,orothercommunicationsormaterialsrelatingtoamediation proceedingpursuanttothissectionobtainedbyanypersonperforming mediationdutiesisexemptfromtheprovisionsofs.119.07(1). History.s.128,ch.86220;s.4,ch.89183;s.17,ch.90360;s.10,ch.92138; s.20,ch.96406;s.5,ch.2004291;s.5,ch.2009180. 61.19 Entryofjudgmentofdissolutionofmarriage,delayperiod. No finaljudgmentofdissolutionofmarriagemaybeentereduntilatleast20days haveelapsedfromthedateoffilingtheoriginalpetitionfordissolutionof marriage;butthecourt,onashowingthatinjusticewouldresultfromthis delay,mayenterafinaljudgmentofdissolutionofmarriageatanearlierdate. History.s.1,ch.57258;s.1,ch.5964;s.1,ch.61123;s.16,ch.67254;s. 20,ch.71241. Note. Formers.65.20. 61.191 Application. (1) ThisactappliestoallproceedingscommencedonorafterJuly1,1971. However,pendingactionsfordivorcearedeemedtohavebeencommenced onthebasesprovidedins.61.052,andevidenceastosuchbasesfor dissolutionofmarriageafterJuly1,1971,shallbeincompliancewiththisact. (2) ThisactappliestoallproceedingscommencedafterJuly1,1971,for themodificationofajudgmentororderenteredpriortoJuly1,1971. (3) Inanyactionorproceedinginwhichanappealwaspendingoranew trialwasorderedpriortoJuly1,1971,thelawineffectatthetimeoftheorder
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sustainingtheappealorthenewtrialgovernstheappeal,thenewtrial,and anysubsequenttrialorappeal. History.s.21,ch.71241;s.19,ch.79164. 61.20 Socialinvestigationandrecommendationsregardingaparenting plan. (1) Inanyactionwheretheparentingplanisatissuebecausetheparents areunabletoagree,thecourtmayorderasocialinvestigationandstudy concerningallpertinentdetailsrelatingtothechildandeachparentwhen suchaninvestigationhasnotbeendoneandthestudytherefromprovidedto thecourtbythepartiesorwhenthecourtdeterminesthattheinvestigation andstudythathavebeendoneareinsufficient.Theagency,staff,orperson conductingtheinvestigationandstudyorderedbythecourtpursuanttothis sectionshallfurnishthecourtandallpartiesofrecordintheproceedinga writtenstudycontainingrecommendations,includingawrittenstatementof factsfoundinthesocialinvestigationonwhichtherecommendationsare based.Thecourtmayconsidertheinformationcontainedinthestudyin makingadecisionontheparentingplan,andthetechnicalrulesofevidence donotexcludethestudyfromconsideration. (2) Asocialinvestigationandstudy,whenorderedbythecourt,shallbe conductedbyqualifiedstaffofthecourt;achildplacingagencylicensed pursuanttos.409.175;apsychologistlicensedpursuanttochapter490;ora clinicalsocialworker,marriageandfamilytherapist,ormentalhealth counselorlicensedpursuanttochapter491.Ifacertificationofindigence basedonanaffidavitfiledwiththecourtpursuanttos.57.081isprovidedby anadultpartytotheproceedingandthecourtdoesnothavequalifiedstaffto performtheinvestigationandstudy,thecourtmayrequestthatthe DepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesconducttheinvestigationand study. (3) Exceptastopersonswhoobtaincertificationofindigenceasspecified insubsection(2),forwhomnocostsareincurred,theparentsinvolvedina proceedingtodetermineaparentingplanwherethecourthasorderedthe performanceofasocialinvestigationandstudyareresponsibleforpayingthe
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costsoftheinvestigationandstudy.Uponsubmittingthestudytothecourt, theagency,staff,orpersonperformingthestudyshallincludeabillfor services,whichshallbetaxedandorderedpaidascostsintheproceeding. History.s.1,ch.59186;s.16,ch.67254;ss.19,35,ch.69106;s.12,ch.77 147;s.27,ch.77433;s.1,ch.86101;s.1,ch.8938;s.4,ch.998;s.14,ch.2008 61;s.6,ch.2009180. Note. Formers.65.21. 61.21 Parentingcourseauthorized;fees;requiredattendanceauthorized; contempt. (1) LEGISLATIVEFINDINGS;PURPOSE.Itisthefindingofthe Legislaturethat: (a) Alargenumberofchildrenexperiencetheseparationordivorceof theirparentseachyear.Parentalconflictrelatedtodivorceisasocietal concernbecausechildrensufferpotentialshorttermandlongterm detrimentaleconomic,emotional,andeducationaleffectsduringthisdifficult periodoffamilytransition.Thisisparticularlytruewhenparentsengagein lengthylegalconflict. (b) Parentsaremorelikelytoconsiderthebestinterestsoftheirchildren whendeterminingparentalarrangementsifcourtsprovidefamilieswith informationregardingtheprocessbywhichcourtsmakedecisionsonissues affectingtheirchildrenandsuggestionsastohowparentsmayeasethe comingadjustmentsinfamilystructurefortheirchildren. (c) Ithasbeenfoundtobebeneficialtoparentswhoareseparatingor divorcingtohaveavailableaneducationalprogramthatwillprovidegeneral informationregarding: 1. Theissuesandlegalproceduresforresolvingtimesharingandchild supportdisputes. 2. Theemotionalexperiencesandproblemsofdivorcingadults. 3. Thefamilyproblemsandtheemotionalconcernsandneedsofthe children. 4. Theavailabilityofcommunityservicesandresources.
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(d) Parentswhoareseparatingordivorcingaremorelikelytoreceive maximumbenefitfromaprogramiftheyattendsuchprogramattheearliest stagesoftheirdispute,beforeextensivelitigationoccursandadversarial positionsareassumedorintensified. (2) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesshallapprovea parentingcoursewhichshallbeacourseofaminimumof4hoursdesignedto educate,train,andassistdivorcingparentsinregardtotheconsequencesof divorceonparentsandchildren. (a) Theparentingcoursereferredtointhissectionshallbenamedthe ParentEducationandFamilyStabilizationCourseandmayinclude,butneed notbelimitedto,thefollowingtopicsastheyrelatetocourtactionsbetween parentsinvolvingcustody,care,timesharing,andsupportofachildor children: 1. Legalaspectsofdecidingchildrelatedissuesbetweenparents. 2. Emotionalaspectsofseparationanddivorceonadults. 3. Emotionalaspectsofseparationanddivorceonchildren. 4. Familyrelationshipsandfamilydynamics. 5. Financialresponsibilitiestoachildorchildren. 6. Issuesregardingspousalorchildabuseandneglect. 7. Skillbasedrelationshipeducationthatmaybegeneralizedto parenting,workplace,school,neighborhood,andcivicrelationships. (b) Informationregardingspousalandchildabuseandneglectshallbe includedineveryparenteducationandfamilystabilizationcourse.Alistof localagenciesthatprovideassistancewithsuchissuesshallalsobeprovided. (c) Theparenteducationandfamilystabilizationcourseshallbe educationalinnatureandshallnotbedesignedtoprovideindividualmental healththerapyforparentsorchildren,orindividuallegaladvicetoparentsor children. (d) Courseprovidersshallnotsolicitparticipantsfromthesessionsthey conducttobecomeprivateclientsorpatients. (e) Courseprovidersshallnotgiveindividuallegaladviceormental healththerapy.
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(3) Eachcourseproviderofferingaparentingcoursepursuanttothis sectionmustbeapprovedbytheDepartmentofChildrenandFamily Services. (a) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesshallprovideeach judicialcircuitwithalistofapprovedcourseprovidersandsitesatwhichthe parenteducationandfamilystabilizationcoursemaybecompleted.Each judicialcircuitmustmakeinformationregardingallcourseproviders approvedfortheircircuitavailabletoallparents. (b) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesshallincludeonthe listofapprovedcourseprovidersandsitesforeachcircuitatleastonesitein thatcircuitwheretheparenteducationandfamilystabilizationcoursemaybe completedonaslidingfeescale,ifavailable. (c) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesshallincludeonthe listofapprovedcourseproviders,withoutlimitationastotheareaofthestate forwhichthecourseisapproved,aminimumofonestatewideapproved coursetobeprovidedthroughtheInternetandonestatewideapproved coursetobeprovidedthroughcorrespondence.ThepurposeoftheInternet andcorrespondencecoursesistoensurethattheparenteducationand stabilizationcourseisavailableinthehomecountyofeachstateresidentand tothoseoutofstatepersonssubjecttothissection. (d) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesmayremovea providerwhoviolatesthissection,oritsimplementingrules,fromthelistof approvedcourtproviders. (e) TheDepartmentofChildrenandFamilyServicesshalladoptrulesto administersubsection(2)andthissubsection. (4) Allpartiestoadissolutionofmarriageproceedingwithminor childrenorapaternityactionthatinvolvesissuesofparentalresponsibility shallberequiredtocompletetheParentEducationandFamilyStabilization Coursepriortotheentrybythecourtofafinaljudgment.Thecourtmay excuseapartyfromattendingtheparentingcourse,orfromcompletingthe coursewithintherequiredtime,forgoodcause.
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(5) Allpartiesrequiredtocompleteaparentingcourseunderthissection shallbeginthecourseasexpeditiouslyaspossible.Fordissolutionofmarriage actions,unlessexcusedbythecourtpursuanttosubsection(4),thepetitioner mustcompletethecoursewithin45daysafterthefilingofthepetition,andall otherpartiesmustcompletethecoursewithin45daysafterserviceofthe petition.Forpaternityactions,unlessexcusedbythecourtpursuantto subsection(4),thepetitionermustcompletethecoursewithin45daysafter filingthepetition,andanyotherpartymustcompletethecoursewithin45 daysafteranacknowledgmentofpaternitybythatparty,anadjudicationof paternityofthatparty,oranordergrantingtimesharingtoorsupportfrom thatparty.Eachpartytoadissolutionorpaternityactionshallfileproofof compliancewiththissubsectionwiththecourtpriortotheentryofthefinal judgment. (6) Allpartiestoamodificationofafinaljudgmentinvolvingaparenting planoratimesharingschedulemayberequiredtocompleteacourt approvedparentingcoursepriortotheentryofanordermodifyingthefinal judgment. (7) Areasonablefeemaybechargedtoeachparentattendingthecourse. (8) Informationobtainedorstatementsmadebythepartiesatany educationalsessionrequiredunderthisstatuteshallnotbeconsideredinthe adjudicationofapendingorsubsequentaction,norshallanyreportresulting fromsucheducationalsessionbecomepartoftherecordofthecaseunlessthe partieshavestipulatedinwritingtothecontrary. (9) Thecourtmayholdanyparentwhofailstoattendarequired parentingcourseincontempt,orthatparentmaybedeniedsharedparental responsibilityortimesharingorotherwisesanctionedasthecourtdeems appropriate. (10) Nothinginthissectionshallbeconstruedtorequirethepartiestoa dissolutionofmarriagetoattendacourtapprovedparentingcoursetogether. (11) Thecourtmay,withoutmotionofeitherparty,prohibittheparenting coursefrombeingtakentogether,ifthereisahistoryofdomesticviolence betweentheparties.
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History.s.1,ch.94185;s.13,ch.98403;s.75,ch.2003402;s.8,ch.2005 239;s.15,ch.200861;s.7,ch.2009180. 61.29 Childsupportguidelines;principles. Thefollowingprinciples establishthepublicpolicyoftheStateofFloridainthecreationofthechild supportguidelines: (1) Eachparenthasafundamentalobligationtosupporthisorherminor orlegallydependentchild. (2) Theguidelinesscheduleisbasedontheparentscombinednetincome estimatedtohavebeenallocatedtothechildasiftheparentsandchildren werelivinginanintacthousehold. (3) Theguidelinesencouragefairandefficientsettlementofsupport issuesbetweenparentsandminimizestheneedforlitigation. History.s.4,ch.2010199. 61.30 Childsupportguidelines;retroactivechildsupport. (1)(a) Thechildsupportguidelineamountasdeterminedbythissection presumptivelyestablishestheamountthetrieroffactshallorderaschild supportinaninitialproceedingforsuchsupportorinaproceedingfor modificationofanexistingorderforsuchsupport,whethertheproceeding arisesunderthisoranotherchapter.Thetrieroffactmayorderpaymentof childsupportwhichvaries,plusorminus5percent,fromtheguideline amount,afterconsideringallrelevantfactors,includingtheneedsofthechild orchildren,age,stationinlife,standardofliving,andthefinancialstatusand abilityofeachparent.Thetrieroffactmayorderpaymentofchildsupportin anamountwhichvariesmorethan5percentfromsuchguidelineamount onlyuponawrittenfindingexplainingwhyorderingpaymentofsuch guidelineamountwouldbeunjustorinappropriate.Notwithstandingthe variancelimitationsofthissection,thetrieroffactshallorderpaymentof childsupportwhichvariesfromtheguidelineamountasprovidedin paragraph(11)(b)wheneveranyofthechildrenarerequiredbycourtorderor mediationagreementtospendasubstantialamountoftimewitheither parent.Thisrequirementappliestoanylivingarrangement,whether temporaryorpermanent.
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(b) Theguidelinesmayprovidethebasisforprovingasubstantialchange incircumstancesuponwhichamodificationofanexistingordermaybe granted.However,thedifferencebetweentheexistingmonthlyobligation andtheamountprovidedforundertheguidelinesshallbeatleast15percent or$50,whicheveramountisgreater,beforethecourtmayfindthatthe guidelinesprovideasubstantialchangeincircumstances. (c) Foreachsupportorderreviewedbythedepartmentasrequiredbys. 409.2564(11),iftheamountofthechildsupportawardundertheorderdiffers byatleast10percentbutnotlessthan$25fromtheamountthatwouldbe awardedunderthissection,thedepartmentshallseektohavetheorder modifiedandanymodificationshallbemadewithoutarequirementforproof orshowingofachangeincircumstances. (2) Incomeshallbedeterminedonamonthlybasisforeachparentas follows: (a) Grossincomeshallinclude,butisnotlimitedto,thefollowing: 1. Salaryorwages. 2. Bonuses,commissions,allowances,overtime,tips,andothersimilar payments. 3. Businessincomefromsourcessuchasselfemployment,partnership, closecorporations,andindependentcontracts.Businessincomemeans grossreceiptsminusordinaryandnecessaryexpensesrequiredtoproduce income. 4. Disabilitybenefits. 5. Allworkerscompensationbenefitsandsettlements. 6. Unemploymentcompensation. 7. Pension,retirement,orannuitypayments. 8. Socialsecuritybenefits. 9. Spousalsupportreceivedfromapreviousmarriageorcourtorderedin themarriagebeforethecourt. 10. Interestanddividends. 11. Rentalincome,whichisgrossreceiptsminusordinaryandnecessary expensesrequiredtoproducetheincome.
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12. Incomefromroyalties,trusts,orestates. 13. Reimbursedexpensesorinkindpaymentstotheextentthatthey reducelivingexpenses. 14. Gainsderivedfromdealingsinproperty,unlessthegainis nonrecurring. (b) Monthlyincomeshallbeimputedtoanunemployedor underemployedparentifsuchunemploymentorunderemploymentisfound bythecourttobevoluntaryonthatparentspart,absentafindingoffactby thecourtofphysicalormentalincapacityorothercircumstancesoverwhich theparenthasnocontrol.Intheeventofsuchvoluntaryunemploymentor underemployment,theemploymentpotentialandprobableearningslevelof theparentshallbedeterminedbaseduponhisorherrecentworkhistory, occupationalqualifications,andprevailingearningslevelinthecommunityif suchinformationisavailable.Iftheinformationconcerningaparentsincome isunavailable,aparentfailstoparticipateinachildsupportproceeding,ora parentfailstosupplyadequatefinancialinformationinachildsupport proceeding,incomeshallbeautomaticallyimputedtotheparentandthereis arebuttablepresumptionthattheparenthasincomeequivalenttothemedian incomeofyearroundfulltimeworkersasderivedfromcurrentpopulation reportsorreplacementreportspublishedbytheUnitedStatesBureauofthe Census.However,thecourtmayrefusetoimputeincometoaparentifthe courtfindsitnecessaryforthatparenttostayhomewiththechildwhoisthe subjectofachildsupportcalculationorassetforthbelow: 1. Inorderforthecourttoimputeincomeatanamountotherthanthe medianincomeofyearroundfulltimeworkersasderivedfromcurrent populationreportsorreplacementreportspublishedbytheUnitedStates BureauoftheCensus,thecourtmustmakespecificfindingsoffactconsistent withtherequirementsofthisparagraph.Thepartyseekingtoimputeincome hastheburdentopresentcompetent,substantialevidencethat: a. Theunemploymentorunderemploymentisvoluntary;and b. Identifiestheamountandsourceoftheimputedincome,through evidenceofincomefromavailableemploymentforwhichthepartyissuitably
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qualifiedbyeducation,experience,currentlicensure,orgeographiclocation, withdueconsiderationbeinggiventothepartiestimesharingscheduleand theirhistoricalexerciseofthetimesharingprovidedintheparentingplanor relevantorder. 2. Exceptassetforthinsubparagraph1.,incomemaynotbeimputed basedupon: a. Incomerecordsthataremorethan5yearsoldatthetimeofthehearing ortrialatwhichimputationissought;or b. Incomeatalevelthatapartyhasneverearnedinthepast,unless recentlydegreed,licensed,certified,relicensed,orrecertifiedandthus qualifiedfor,subjecttogeographiclocation,withdueconsiderationofthe partiesexistingtimesharingscheduleandtheirhistoricalexerciseofthetime sharingprovidedintheparentingplanorrelevantorder. (c) Publicassistanceasdefinedins.409.2554shallbeexcludedfromgross income. (3) Netincomeisobtainedbysubtractingallowabledeductionsfrom grossincome.Allowabledeductionsshallinclude: (a) Federal,state,andlocalincometaxdeductions,adjustedforactual filingstatusandallowabledependentsandincometaxliabilities. (b) Federalinsurancecontributionsorselfemploymenttax. (c) Mandatoryuniondues. (d) Mandatoryretirementpayments. (e) Healthinsurancepayments,excludingpaymentsforcoverageofthe minorchild. (f) Courtorderedsupportforotherchildrenwhichisactuallypaid. (g) Spousalsupportpaidpursuanttoacourtorderfromaprevious marriageorthemarriagebeforethecourt. (4) Netincomeforeachparentshallbecomputedbysubtracting allowabledeductionsfromgrossincome. (5) Netincomeforeachparentshallbeaddedtogetherforacombinednet income.
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(6) Thefollowingguidelinesscheduleshallbeappliedtothecombined netincometodeterminetheminimumchildsupportneed: Combined Monthly Net Income 800.00 850.00 900.00 950.00 1000.00 1050.00 1100.00 1150.00 1200.00 1250.00 1300.00 1350.00 1400.00 1450.00 1500.00 1550.00 1600.00 1650.00 1700.00 1750.00 1800.00 1850.00 1900.00 1950.00 2000.00 One 190 202 213 224 235 246 258 269 280 290 300 310 320 330 340 350 360 370 380 390 400 410 421 431 442 Two 211 257 302 347 365 382 400 417 435 451 467 482 498 513 529 544 560 575 591 606 622 638 654 670 686 Three 213 259 305 351 397 443 489 522 544 565 584 603 623 642 662 681 701 720 740 759 779 798 818 839 859 Four 216 262 309 355 402 448 495 541 588 634 659 681 702 724 746 768 790 812 833 855 877 900 923 946 968 Five 218 265 312 359 406 453 500 547 594 641 688 735 765 789 813 836 860 884 907 931 955 979 1004 1029 1054 Six 220 268 315 363 410 458 505 553 600 648 695 743 790 838 869 895 920 945 971 996 1022 1048 1074 1101 1128 ChildorChildren
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Combined Monthly Net Income 2050.00 2100.00 2150.00 2200.00 2250.00 2300.00 2350.00 2400.00 2450.00 2500.00 2550.00 2600.00 2650.00 2700.00 2750.00 2800.00 2850.00 2900.00 2950.00 3000.00 3050.00 3100.00 3150.00 3200.00 3250.00 3300.00 3350.00 One 452 463 473 484 494 505 515 526 536 547 557 568 578 588 597 607 616 626 635 644 654 663 673 682 691 701 710 Two 702 718 734 751 767 783 799 815 831 847 864 880 896 912 927 941 956 971 986 1001 1016 1031 1045 1060 1075 1090 1105 Three 879 899 919 940 960 980 1000 1020 1041 1061 1081 1101 1121 1141 1160 1178 1197 1215 1234 1252 1271 1289 1308 1327 1345 1364 1382 Four 991 1014 1037 1060 1082 1105 1128 1151 1174 1196 1219 1242 1265 1287 1308 1328 1349 1370 1391 1412 1433 1453 1474 1495 1516 1537 1558 Five 1079 1104 1129 1154 1179 1204 1229 1254 1279 1304 1329 1354 1379 1403 1426 1448 1471 1494 1517 1540 1563 1586 1608 1631 1654 1677 1700 Six 1154 1181 1207 1234 1261 1287 1314 1340 1367 1394 1420 1447 1473 1500 1524 1549 1573 1598 1622 1647 1671 1695 1720 1744 1769 1793 1818 ChildorChildren
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Combined Monthly Net Income 8800.00 8850.00 8900.00 8950.00 9000.00 9050.00 9100.00 9150.00 9200.00 9250.00 9300.00 9350.00 9400.00 9450.00 9500.00 9550.00 9600.00 9650.00 9700.00 9750.00 9800.00 9850.00 9900.00 9950.00 10000.00 One 1352 1356 1360 1364 1368 1372 1376 1380 1384 1388 1391 1395 1399 1403 1407 1411 1415 1419 1422 1425 1427 1430 1432 1435 1437 Two 2100 2106 2111 2117 2123 2129 2135 2141 2147 2153 2159 2165 2171 2177 2183 2189 2195 2201 2206 2210 2213 2217 2221 2225 2228 Three 2634 2642 2649 2657 2664 2672 2680 2687 2695 2702 2710 2717 2725 2732 2740 2748 2755 2763 2767 2772 2776 2781 2786 2791 2795 Four 2963 2972 2981 2989 2998 3006 3015 3023 3032 3040 3049 3058 3066 3075 3083 3092 3100 3109 3115 3121 3126 3132 3137 3143 3148 Five 3233 3242 3252 3261 3270 3279 3289 3298 3307 3316 3326 3335 3344 3353 3363 3372 3381 3390 3396 3402 3408 3414 3420 3426 3432 Six 3454 3464 3474 3484 3493 3503 3513 3523 3532 3542 3552 3562 3571 3581 3591 3601 3610 3620 3628 3634 3641 3647 3653 3659 3666 ChildorChildren
(a) Iftheobligorparentsnetincomeislessthantheamountinthe guidelinesschedule:
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1. Theparentshouldbeorderedtopayachildsupportamount, determinedonacasebycasebasis,toestablishtheprincipleofpaymentand laythebasisforincreasedsupportordersshouldtheparentsincome increase. 2. Theobligorparentschildsupportpaymentshallbethelesserofthe obligorparentsactualdollarshareofthetotalminimumchildsupport amount,asdeterminedinsubparagraph1.,and90percentofthedifference betweentheobligorparentsmonthlynetincomeandthecurrentpoverty guidelinesasperiodicallyupdatedintheFederalRegisterbytheUnitedStates DepartmentofHealthandHumanServicespursuantto42U.S.C.s.9902(2) forasingleindividuallivingalone. (b) Forcombinedmonthlynetincomegreaterthantheamountinthe guidelinesschedule,theobligationistheminimumamountofsupport providedbytheguidelinesscheduleplusthefollowingpercentages multipliedbytheamountofincomeover$10,000: ChildorChildren One 5.0% Two 7.5% Three 9.5% Four 11.0% Five 12.0% Six 12.5%
(7) Childcarecostsincurredduetoemployment,jobsearch,oreducation calculatedtoresultinemploymentortoenhanceincomeofcurrent employmentofeitherparentshallbeaddedtothebasicobligation.Afterthe childcarecostsareadded,anymoneysprepaidbyaparentforchildcare costsforthechildorchildrenofthisactionshallbedeductedfromthat parentschildsupportobligationforthatchildorthosechildren.Childcare costsmaynotexceedthelevelrequiredtoprovidequalitycarefroma licensedsource. (8) Healthinsurancecostsresultingfromcoverageorderedpursuanttos. 61.13(1)(b),andanynoncoveredmedical,dental,andprescriptionmedication expensesofthechild,shallbeaddedtothebasicobligationunlessthese expenseshavebeenorderedtobeseparatelypaidonapercentagebasis.After thehealthinsurancecostsareaddedtothebasicobligation,anymoneys
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prepaidbyaparentforhealthrelatedcostsforthechildorchildrenofthis actionshallbedeductedfromthatparentschildsupportobligationforthat childorthosechildren. (9) Eachparentspercentageshareofthechildsupportneedshallbe determinedbydividingeachparentsnetmonthlyincomebythecombined netmonthlyincome. (10) Eachparentsactualdollarshareofthetotalminimumchildsupport needshallbedeterminedbymultiplyingtheminimumchildsupportneedby eachparentspercentageshareofthecombinedmonthlynetincome. (11)(a) Thecourtmayadjustthetotalminimumchildsupportaward,or eitherorbothparentsshareofthetotalminimumchildsupportaward,based uponthefollowingdeviationfactors: 1. Extraordinarymedical,psychological,educational,ordentalexpenses. 2. Independentincomeofthechild,nottoincludemoneysreceivedbya childfromsupplementalsecurityincome. 3. Thepaymentofsupportforaparentwhichhasbeenregularlypaidand forwhichthereisademonstratedneed. 4. Seasonalvariationsinoneorbothparentsincomesorexpenses. 5. Theageofthechild,takingintoaccountthegreaterneedsofolder children. 6. Specialneeds,suchascoststhatmaybeassociatedwiththedisabilityof achild,thathavetraditionallybeenmetwithinthefamilybudgeteven thoughfulfillingthoseneedswillcausethesupporttoexceedthe presumptiveamountestablishedbytheguidelines. 7. Totalavailableassetsoftheobligee,obligor,andthechild. 8. TheimpactoftheInternalRevenueServiceChild&DependentCare TaxCredit,EarnedIncomeTaxCredit,anddependencyexemptionand waiverofthatexemption.Thecourtmayorderaparenttoexecuteawaiverof theInternalRevenueServicedependencyexemptionifthepayingparentis currentinsupportpayments. 9. Anapplicationofthechildsupportguidelinesschedulethatrequiresa persontopayanotherpersonmorethan55percentofhisorhergrossincome
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forachildsupportobligationforcurrentsupportresultingfromasingle supportorder. 10. Theparticularparentingplan,suchaswherethechildspendsa significantamountoftime,butlessthan20percentoftheovernights,with oneparent,therebyreducingthefinancialexpendituresincurredbytheother parent;ortherefusalofaparenttobecomeinvolvedintheactivitiesofthe child. 11. Anyotheradjustmentthatisneededtoachieveanequitableresult whichmayinclude,butnotbelimitedto,areasonableandnecessaryexisting expenseordebt.Suchexpenseordebtmayinclude,butisnotlimitedto,a reasonableandnecessaryexpenseordebtthatthepartiesjointlyincurred duringthemarriage. (b) Wheneveraparticularparentingplanprovidesthateachchildspenda substantialamountoftimewitheachparent,thecourtshalladjustanyaward ofchildsupport,asfollows: 1. Inaccordancewithsubsections(9)and(10),calculatetheamountof supportobligationapportionedtoeachparentwithoutincludingdaycareand healthinsurancecostsinthecalculationandmultiplytheamountby1.5. 2. Calculatethepercentageofovernightstaysthechildspendswitheach parent. 3. Multiplyeachparentssupportobligationascalculatedin subparagraph1.bythepercentageoftheotherparentsovernightstayswith thechildascalculatedinsubparagraph2. 4. Thedifferencebetweentheamountscalculatedinsubparagraph3.shall bethemonetarytransfernecessarybetweentheparentsforthecareofthe child,subjecttoanadjustmentfordaycareandhealthinsuranceexpenses. 5. Pursuanttosubsections(7)and(8),calculatethenetamountsowedby eachparentfortheexpensesincurredfordaycareandhealthinsurance coverageforthechild. 6. Adjustthesupportobligationowedbyeachparentpursuantto subparagraph4.bycreditingordebitingtheamountcalculatedin
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subparagraph5.Thisamountrepresentsthechildsupportwhichmustbe exchangedbetweentheparents. 7. Thecourtmaydeviatefromthechildsupportamountcalculated pursuanttosubparagraph6.baseduponthedeviationfactorsinparagraph (a),aswellastheobligeeparentslowincomeandabilitytomaintainthebasic necessitiesofthehomeforthechild,thelikelihoodthateitherparentwill actuallyexercisethetimesharingschedulesetforthintheparentingplan grantedbythecourt,andwhetherallofthechildrenareexercisingthesame timesharingschedule. 8. Forpurposesofadjustinganyawardofchildsupportunderthis paragraph,substantialamountoftimemeansthataparentexercisestime sharingatleast20percentoftheovernightsoftheyear. (c) Aparentsfailuretoregularlyexercisethecourtorderedoragreed timesharingschedulenotcausedbytheotherparentwhichresultedinthe adjustmentoftheamountofchildsupportpursuanttosubparagraph(a)10.or paragraph(b)shallbedeemedasubstantialchangeofcircumstancesfor purposesofmodifyingthechildsupportaward.Amodificationpursuantto thisparagraphisretroactivetothedatethenoncustodialparentfirstfailedto regularlyexercisethecourtorderedoragreedtimesharingschedule. (12)(a) Aparentwithasupportobligationmayhaveotherchildrenliving withhimorherwhowerebornoradoptedafterthesupportobligationarose. Ifsuchsubsequentchildrenexist,thecourt,whenconsideringanupward modificationofanexistingaward,maydisregardtheincomefromsecondary employmentobtainedinadditiontotheparentsprimaryemploymentifthe courtdeterminesthattheemploymentwasobtainedprimarilytosupportthe subsequentchildren. (b) Exceptasprovidedinparagraph(a),theexistenceofsuchsubsequent childrenshouldnotasageneralrulebeconsideredbythecourtasabasisfor disregardingtheamountprovidedintheguidelinesschedule.Theparent withasupportobligationforsubsequentchildrenmayraisetheexistenceof suchsubsequentchildrenasajustificationfordeviationfromtheguidelines schedule.However,iftheexistenceofsuchsubsequentchildrenisraised,the
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incomeoftheotherparentofthesubsequentchildrenshallbeconsideredby thecourtindeterminingwhetherornotthereisabasisfordeviationfromthe guidelineamount. (c) Theissueofsubsequentchildrenunderparagraph(a)orparagraph(b) mayonlyberaisedinaproceedingforanupwardmodificationofanexisting awardandmaynotbeappliedtojustifyadecreaseinanexistingaward. (13) Iftherecurringincomeisnotsufficienttomeettheneedsofthechild, thecourtmayorderchildsupporttobepaidfromnonrecurringincomeor assets. (14) Everypetitionforchildsupportorformodificationofchildsupport shallbeaccompaniedbyanaffidavitwhichshowsthepartysincome, allowabledeductions,andnetincomecomputedinaccordancewiththis section.Theaffidavitshallbeservedatthesametimethatthepetitionis served.Therespondent,whetherornotastipulationisentered,shallmakean affidavitwhichshowsthepartysincome,allowabledeductions,andnet incomecomputedinaccordancewiththissection.Therespondentshall includehisorheraffidavitwiththeanswertothepetitionorassoon thereafterasispracticable,butinanycaseatleast72hourspriortoany hearingonthefinancesofeitherparty. (15) Forpurposesofestablishinganobligationforsupportinaccordance withthissection,ifapersonwhoisreceivingpublicassistanceisfoundtobe noncooperativeasdefinedins.409.2572,thedepartmentmaysubmittothe courtanaffidavitorwrittendeclarationsignedunderpenaltyofperjuryas specifiedins.92.525(2)attestingtotheincomeofthatparentbasedupon informationavailabletothedepartment. (16) TheLegislatureshallreviewtheguidelinesscheduleestablishedin thissectionatleastevery4yearsbeginningin1997. (17) Inaninitialdeterminationofchildsupport,whetherinapaternity action,dissolutionofmarriageaction,orpetitionforsupportduringthe marriage,thecourthasdiscretiontoawardchildsupportretroactivetothe datewhentheparentsdidnotresidetogetherinthesamehouseholdwiththe child,nottoexceedaperiodof24monthsprecedingthefilingofthepetition,
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regardlessofwhetherthatdateprecedesthefilingofthepetition.In determiningtheretroactiveawardinsuchcases,thecourtshallconsiderthe following: (a) Thecourtshallapplytheguidelinesscheduleineffectatthetimeof thehearingsubjecttotheobligorsdemonstrationofhisorheractualincome, asdefinedbysubsection(2),duringtheretroactiveperiod.Failureofthe obligortosodemonstrateshallresultinthecourtusingtheobligorsincome atthetimeofthehearingincomputingchildsupportfortheretroactive period. (b) Allactualpaymentsmadebyaparenttotheotherparentorthechild orthirdpartiesforthebenefitofthechildthroughouttheproposed retroactiveperiod. (c) Thecourtshouldconsideraninstallmentpaymentplanforthe paymentofretroactivechildsupport. History.s.3,ch.8795;s.5,ch.89183;s.5,ch.91246;s.11,ch.92138;s.5, ch.93208;s.2,ch.94204;s.2,ch.94318;s.1366,ch.95147;s.53,ch.96175;s. 3,ch.96305;s.11,ch.97170;s.11,ch.98397;s.1,ch.99359;s.2,ch.200191; ss.15,16,ch.2001158;s.7,ch.2002173;s.11,ch.200539;s.16,ch.200861;ss. 2,17,ch.2010187;s.5,ch.2010199;s.3,ch.20114. 61.401 Appointmentofguardianadlitem. Inanactionfordissolutionof marriageorforthecreation,approval,ormodificationofaparentingplan,if thecourtfindsitisinthebestinterestofthechild,thecourtmayappointa guardianadlitemtoactasnextfriendofthechild,investigatororevaluator, notasattorneyoradvocate.Thecourtinitsdiscretionmayalsoappointlegal counselforachildtoactasattorneyoradvocate;however,theguardianand thelegalcounselshallnotbethesameperson.Insuchactionswhichinvolve anallegationofchildabuse,abandonment,orneglectasdefinedins.39.01, whichallegationisverifiedanddeterminedbythecourttobewellfounded, thecourtshallappointaguardianadlitemforthechild.Theguardianad litemshallbeapartytoanyjudicialproceedingfromthedateofthe appointmentuntilthedateofdischarge. History.s.1,ch.90226;s.3,ch.94204;s.123,ch.98403;s.17,ch.200861.
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61.402 Qualificationsofguardiansadlitem. (1) Apersonappointedasaguardianadlitempursuanttos.61.401must be: (a) CertifiedbytheGuardianAdLitemProgrampursuanttos.39.821; (b) Certifiedbyanotforprofitlegalaidorganizationasdefinedins. 68.096;or (c) AnattorneywhoisamemberingoodstandingofTheFloridaBar. (2)(a) Priortocertifyingaguardianadlitempursuanttoparagraph(1)(b), thenotforprofitlegalaidorganizationmust: 1. Conductasecuritybackgroundinvestigationasdescribedins.39.821 forwhichthenotforprofitlegalaidorganizationhasthesolediscretionin determiningwhethertocertifyapersonbasedonhisorhersecurity backgroundinvestigation;and 2. Providetrainingusingtheuniformobjectivestatewidetraining programforguardiansadlitemdevelopedbyTheFloridaBar. (b) Thesecuritybackgroundinvestigationandthetrainingprogram requirementsasprovidedinthissubsectionmustbepaidforbythenotfor profitlegalaidorganizationorthepersonseekingcertificationasaguardian adlitemthroughthenotforprofitlegalaidorganization. (3) Onlyaguardianadlitemwhoqualifiesunderparagraph(1)(a)or paragraph(1)(c)maybeappointedtoacaseinwhichthecourthas determinedthattherearewellfoundedallegationsofchildabuse, abandonment,orneglectasdefinedins.39.01. (4) NothinginthissectionrequirestheGuardianAdLitemProgramora notforprofitlegalaidorganizationtotrainorcertifyguardiansadlitem appointedunderthischapter. (5) Itisamisdemeanorofthefirstdegree,punishableasprovidedins. 775.082ors.775.083,foranypersontowillfully,knowingly,orintentionally fail,byfalsestatement,misrepresentation,impersonation,orotherfraudulent means,todiscloseinanapplicationforaguardianadlitemanymaterialfact usedinmakingadeterminationastotheapplicantsqualificationsforsuch position.
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History.s.2,ch.90226;s.1,ch.93203;s.4,ch.94204;s.1367,ch.95147; s.3,ch.96109;s.21,ch.96406;s.124,ch.98403;s.1,ch.2009114. 61.403 Guardiansadlitem;powersandauthority.Aguardianadlitem whenappointedshallactasnextfriendofthechild,investigatororevaluator, notasattorneyoradvocatebutshallactinthechildsbestinterest.A guardianadlitemshallhavethepowers,privileges,andresponsibilitiestothe extentnecessarytoadvancethebestinterestofthechild,including,butnot limitedto,thefollowing: (1) Theguardianadlitemmayinvestigatetheallegationsofthepleadings affectingthechild,and,afterpropernoticetointerestedpartiestothe litigationandsubjecttoconditionssetbythecourt,mayinterviewthechild, witnesses,oranyotherpersonhavinginformationconcerningthewelfareof thechild. (2) Theguardianadlitem,throughcounsel,maypetitionthecourtforan orderdirectedtoaspecifiedperson,agency,ororganization,including,but notlimitedto,hospitals,medicaldoctors,dentists,psychologists,and psychiatrists,whichorderdirectsthattheguardianadlitembeallowedto inspectandcopyanyrecordsanddocumentswhichrelatetotheminorchild ortothechildsparentsorothercustodialpersonsorhouseholdmembers withwhomthechildresides.Suchordershallbeobtainedonlyafternoticeto allpartiesandhearingthereon. (3) Theguardianadlitem,throughcounsel,mayrequestthecourtto orderexpertexaminationsofthechild,thechildsparents,orotherinterested partiesintheaction,bymedicaldoctors,dentists,andotherprovidersof healthcareincludingpsychiatrists,psychologists,orothermentalhealth professionals. (4) Theguardianadlitemmayassistthecourtinobtainingimpartial expertexaminations. (5) Theguardianadlitemmayaddressthecourtandmakewrittenororal recommendationstothecourt.Theguardianadlitemshallfileawritten reportwhichmayincluderecommendationsandastatementofthewishesof thechild.Thereportmustbefiledandservedonallpartiesatleast20days
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priortothehearingatwhichitwillbepresentedunlessthecourtwaivessuch timelimit.Theguardianadlitemmustbeprovidedwithcopiesofall pleadings,notices,andotherdocumentsfiledintheactionandisentitledto reasonablenoticebeforeanyactionaffectingthechildistakenbyeitherofthe parties,theircounsel,orthecourt. (6) Aguardianadlitem,actingthroughcounsel,mayfilesuchpleadings, motions,orpetitionsforreliefastheguardianadlitemdeemsappropriateor necessaryinfurtheranceoftheguardiansfunction.Theguardianadlitem, throughcounsel,isentitledtobepresentandtoparticipateinalldepositions, hearings,andotherproceedingsintheaction,and,throughcounsel,may compeltheattendanceofwitnesses. (7) Thedutiesandrightsofnonattorneyguardiansdonotincludethe righttopracticelaw. (8) Theguardianadlitemshallsubmithisorherrecommendationstothe courtregardinganystipulationoragreement,whetherincidental,temporary, orpermanent,whichaffectstheinterestorwelfareoftheminorchild,within 10daysafterthedatesuchstipulationoragreementisserveduponthe guardianadlitem. History.s.3,ch.90226;s.5,ch.94204;s.1368,ch.95147. 61.404 Guardiansadlitem;confidentiality.Theguardianadlitemshall maintainasconfidentialallinformationanddocumentsreceivedfromany sourcedescribedins.61.403(2)andmaynotdisclosesuchinformationor documentsexcept,intheguardianadlitemsdiscretion,inareporttothe court,serveduponbothpartiestotheactionandtheircounselorasdirected bythecourt. History.s.4,ch.90226. 61.405 Guardiansadlitem;immunity. Anypersonparticipatingina judicialproceedingasaguardianadlitemshallbepresumedprimafacietobe actingingoodfaithandinsodoingshallbeimmunefromanyliability,civil orcriminal,thatotherwisemightbeincurredorimposed. History.s.1,ch.95163. 61.45 Courtorderedparentingplan;riskofviolation;bond.
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(1) Inanyproceedinginwhichthecourtentersaparentingplan, includingatimesharingschedule,includinginamodificationproceeding, uponthepresentationofcompetentsubstantialevidencethatthereisarisk thatonepartymayviolatethecourtsparentingplanbyremovingachild fromthisstateorcountryorbyconcealingthewhereaboutsofachild,upon stipulationoftheparties,uponthemotionofanotherindividualorentity havingarightunderthelawofthisstate,orifthecourtfindsevidencethat establishescredibleriskofremovalofthechild,thecourtmay: (a) Orderthataparentmaynotremovethechildfromthisstatewithout thenotarizedwrittenpermissionofbothparentsorfurthercourtorder; (b) Orderthataparentmaynotremovethechildfromthiscountry withoutthenotarizedwrittenpermissionofbothparentsorfurthercourt order; (c) Orderthataparentmaynottakethechildtoacountrythathasnot ratifiedoraccededtotheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbductionunlesstheotherparentagreesinwritingthat thechildmaybetakentothecountry; (d) Requireaparenttosurrenderthepassportofthechildorrequirethat: 1. ThepetitionerplacethechildsnameintheChildrensPassport IssuanceAlertProgramoftheUnitedStatesDepartmentofState; 2. Therespondentsurrendertothecourtorthepetitionersattorneyany UnitedStatesorforeignpassportissuedinthechildsname,includinga passportissuedinthenameofboththeparentandthechild;and 3. Therespondentnotapplyonbehalfofthechildforanewor replacementpassportorvisa;or (e) Requirethatapartypostbondorothersecurityinanamount sufficienttoserveasafinancialdeterrenttoabduction,theproceedsofwhich maybeusedtopaythereasonableexpensesofrecoveryofthechild, includingreasonableattorneysfeesandcosts,ifthechildisabducted. (2) Ifthecourtentersaparentingplan,includingatimesharingschedule, includinginamodificationproceeding,thatincludesaprovisionentered underparagraph(1)(b)orparagraph(1)(c),acertifiedcopyoftheorder
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shouldbesentbytheparentwhorequestedtherestrictiontothePassport ServicesOfficeoftheUnitedStatesDepartmentofStaterequestingthatthey notissueapassporttothechildwithouttheirsignatureorfurthercourtorder. (3) Ifthecourtentersanorderunderparagraph(1)(a)orparagraph(1)(b) topreventtheremovalofthechildfromthisstateorcountry,theordermay includeoneormoreofthefollowing: (a) Animpositionoftravelrestrictionsthatrequirethatapartytraveling withthechildoutsideadesignatedgeographicareaprovidetheotherparty withthefollowing: 1. Thetravelitineraryofthechild. 2. Alistofphysicaladdressesandtelephonenumbersatwhichthechild canbereachedatspecifiedtimes. 3. Copiesofalltraveldocuments. (b) Aprohibitionoftherespondentdirectlyorindirectly: 1. Removingthechildfromthisstateorcountryoranotherspecified geographicareawithoutpermissionofthecourtorthepetitionerswritten consent; 2. Removingorretainingthechildinviolationofachildcustody determination; 3. Removingthechildfromschoolorachildcareorsimilarfacility;or 4. Approachingthechildatanylocationotherthanasitedesignatedfor supervisedvisitation. (c) Arequirementthatapartyregistertheorderinanotherstateasa prerequisitetoallowingthechildtotraveltothatstate. (d) Asaprerequisitetoexercisingcustodyorvisitation,arequirement thattherespondentprovidethefollowing: 1. Anauthenticatedcopyoftheorderdetailingpassportandtravel restrictionsforthechildtotheOfficeofChildrensIssueswithintheBureauof ConsularAffairsoftheUnitedStatesDepartmentofStateandtherelevant foreignconsulateorembassy. 2. Prooftothecourtthattherespondenthasprovidedtheinformationin subparagraph1.
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3. Anacknowledgmenttothecourtinarecordfromtherelevantforeign consulateorembassythatnopassportapplicationhasbeenmade,orpassport issued,onbehalfofthechild. 4. ProoftothepetitionerandcourtofregistrationwiththeUnitedStates embassyorotherUnitedStatesdiplomaticpresenceinthedestinationcountry andwiththedestinationcountryscentralauthorityfortheHague ConventionontheCivilAspectsofInternationalChildAbduction,ifthat conventionisineffectbetweenthiscountryandthedestinationcountry, unlessoneofthepartiesobjects. 5. AwrittenwaiverunderthePrivacyAct,5U.S.C.s.552a,asamended, withrespecttoanydocument,application,orotherinformationpertainingto thechildortherespondentauthorizingitsdisclosuretothecourt. 6. Awrittenwaiverwithrespecttoanydocument,application,orother informationpertainingtothechildortherespondentinrecordsheldbythe UnitedStatesBureauofCitizenshipandImmigrationServicesauthorizingits disclosuretothecourt. 7. Uponthecourtsrequest,arequirementthattherespondentobtainan orderfromtherelevantforeigncountrycontainingtermsidenticaltothechild custodydeterminationissuedinthiscountry. 8. Uponthecourtsrequest,arequirementthattherespondentbeentered inthePreventDepartureProgramoftheUnitedStatesDepartmentofStateor asimilarfederalprogramdesignedtopreventunauthorizeddeparturesto foreigncountries. (e) Thecourtmayimposeconditionsontheexerciseofcustodyor visitationthatlimitvisitationorrequirethatvisitationwiththechildbythe respondentbesuperviseduntilthecourtfindsthatsupervisionisnolonger necessaryandorderstherespondenttopaythecostsofsupervision. (4) Inassessingtheneedforabondorothersecurity,thecourtmay consideranyreasonablefactorbearingupontheriskthatapartymayviolate aparentingplanbyremovingachildfromthisstateorcountryorby concealingthewhereaboutsofachild,includingbutnotlimitedtowhether:
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(a) Acourthaspreviouslyfoundthatapartypreviouslyremovedachild fromFloridaoranotherstateinviolationofaparentingplan,orwhethera courthadfoundthatapartyhasthreatenedtotakeachildoutofFloridaor anotherstateinviolationofaparentingplan; (b) ThepartyhasstrongfamilyandcommunitytiestoFloridaortoother statesorcountries,includingwhetherthepartyorchildisacitizenofanother country; (c) ThepartyhasstrongfinancialreasonstoremaininFloridaorto relocatetoanotherstateorcountry; (d) ThepartyhasengagedinactivitiesthatsuggestplanstoleaveFlorida, suchasquittingemployment;saleofaresidenceorterminationofaleaseona residence,withouteffortstoacquireanalternativeresidenceinthestate; closingbankaccountsorotherwiseliquidatingassets;applyingforapassport orvisa;orobtainingtraveldocumentsfortherespondentorthechild; (e) Eitherpartyhashadahistoryofdomesticviolenceaseitheravictimor perpetrator,childabuseorchildneglectevidencedbycriminalhistory, includingbutnotlimitedto,arrest,aninjunctionforprotectionagainst domesticviolenceissuedafternoticeandhearingunders.741.30,medical records,affidavits,oranyotherrelevantinformation; (f) Thepartyhasacriminalrecord; (g) Thepartyislikelytotakethechildtoacountrythat: 1. IsnotapartytotheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbductionanddoesnotprovidefortheextraditionofan abductingparentorforthereturnofanabductedchild; 2. IsapartytotheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbduction,but: a. TheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsofInternationalChild Abductionisnotinforcebetweenthiscountryandthatcountry; b. Isnoncompliantordemonstratingpatternsofnoncompliance accordingtothemostrecentcompliancereportissuedbytheUnitedStates DepartmentofState;or
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c. Lackslegalmechanismsforimmediatelyandeffectivelyenforcinga returnorderundertheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbduction; 3. Posesariskthatthechildsphysicaloremotionalhealthorsafety wouldbeendangeredinthecountrybecauseofspecificcircumstances relatingtothechildorbecauseofhumanrightsviolationscommittedagainst children; 4. Haslawsorpracticesthatwould: a. Enabletherespondent,withoutduecause,topreventthepetitioner fromcontactingthechild; b. Restrictthepetitionerfromfreelytravelingtoorexitingfromthe countrybecauseofthepetitionersgender,nationality,maritalstatus,or religion;or c. Restrictthechildsabilitytolegallyleavethecountryafterthechild reachestheageofmajoritybecauseofachildsgender,nationality,or religion; 5. IsincludedbytheUnitedStatesDepartmentofStateonacurrentlistof statesponsorsofterrorism; 6. DoesnothaveanofficialUnitedStatesdiplomaticpresenceinthe country;or 7. Isengagedinactivemilitaryactionorwar,includingacivilwar,to whichthechildmaybeexposed; (h) Thepartyisundergoingachangeinimmigrationorcitizenshipstatus thatwouldadverselyaffecttherespondentsabilitytoremaininthiscountry legally; (i) ThepartyhashadanapplicationforUnitedStatescitizenshipdenied; (j) Thepartyhasforgedorpresentedmisleadingorfalseevidenceon governmentformsorsupportingdocumentstoobtainorattempttoobtaina passport,avisa,traveldocuments,asocialsecuritycard,adriverslicense,or othergovernmentissuedidentificationcardorhasmadeamisrepresentation totheUnitedStatesgovernment; (k) Thepartyhasusedmultiplenamestoattempttomisleadordefraud;
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(l) Thepartyhasbeendiagnosedwithamentalhealthdisorderthatthe courtconsidersrelevanttotheriskofabduction;or (m) Thepartyhasengagedinanyotherconductthatthecourtconsiders relevanttotheriskofabduction. (5) Thecourtmustconsiderthepartysfinancialresourcespriortosetting thebondamountunderthissection.Undernocircumstancesmaythecourt setabondthatisunreasonable. (6) Anydeficiencyofbondorsecuritydoesnotabsolvetheviolatingparty ofresponsibilitytopaythefullamountofdamagesdeterminedbythecourt. (7)(a) Uponamaterialviolationofanyparentingplanbyremovinga childfromthisstateorcountryorbyconcealingthewhereaboutsofachild, thecourtmayorderthebondorothersecurityforfeitedinwholeorinpart. (b) Thissection,includingtherequirementtopostabondorother security,doesnotapplytoaparentwho,inaproceedingtoorderormodifya parentingplanortimesharingschedule,isdeterminedbythecourttobea victimofanactofdomesticviolenceorprovidesthecourtwithreasonable causetobelievethatheorsheisabouttobecomethevictimofanactof domesticviolence,asdefinedins.741.28.Aninjunctionforprotectionagainst domesticviolenceissuedpursuanttos.741.30foraparentasthepetitioner whichisineffectatthetimeofthecourtproceedingshallbeonemeansof demonstratingsufficientevidencethattheparentisavictimofdomestic violenceorisabouttobecomethevictimofanactofdomesticviolence,as definedins.741.28,andshallexempttheparentfromthissection,including therequirementtopostabondorothersecurity.Aparentwhoisdetermined bythecourttobeexemptfromtherequirementsofthissectionmustmeetthe requirementsofs.787.03(6)ifanoffenseofinterferencewiththeparenting planortimesharingscheduleiscommitted. (8)(a) Uponanorderofforfeiture,theproceedsofanybondorother securitypostedpursuanttothissubsectionmayonlybeusedto: 1. Reimbursethenonviolatingpartyforactualcostsordamagesincurred inupholdingthecourtsparentingplan.
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2. Locateandreturnthechildtotheresidenceassetforthintheparenting plan. 3. Reimbursereasonablefeesandcostsasdeterminedbythecourt. (b) Anyremainingproceedsshallbeheldasfurthersecurityifdeemed necessarybythecourt,andiffurthersecurityisnotfoundtobenecessary; appliedtoanychildsupportarrearsowedbytheparentagainstwhomthe bondwasrequired,andifnoarrearsexists;allremainingproceedswillbe allocatedbythecourtinthebestinterestofthechild. (9) Atanytimeaftertheforfeitureofthebondorothersecurity,theparty whopostedthebondorothersecurity,orthecourtonitsownmotionmay requestthatthepartyprovidedocumentationsubstantiatingthattheproceeds receivedasaresultoftheforfeiturehavebeenusedsolelyinaccordancewith thissubsection.Anypartyusingsuchproceedsforpurposesnotin accordancewiththissectionmaybefoundincontemptofcourt. (10) Aviolationofthissectionmaysubjectthepartycommittingthe violationtocivilorcriminalpenaltiesorafederalorstatewarrantunder federalorstatelaws,includingtheInternationalParentalKidnappingCrime Act,andmaysubjecttheviolatingparenttoapprehensionbyalaw enforcementofficer. History.s.4,ch.200265;s.2,ch.2006114;s.18,ch.200861;s.2,ch.2010 59.
PARTII UNIFORM CHILD CUSTODY JURISDICTION AND ENFORCEMENT ACT
61.501 Shorttitle. 61.502 Purposesofpart;constructionofprovisions. 61.503 Definitions. 61.504 Proceedingsgovernedbyotherlaw. 61.505 ApplicationtoIndiantribes. 61.506 Internationalapplicationofpart. 61.507 Effectofchildcustodydetermination. 61.508 Priority.
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61.509 Noticetopersonsoutsidethestate. 61.510 Appearanceandlimitedimmunity. 61.511 Communicationbetweencourts. 61.512 Takingtestimonyinanotherstate. 61.513 Cooperationbetweencourts;preservationofrecords. 61.514 Initialchildcustodyjurisdiction. 61.515 Exclusive,continuingjurisdiction. 61.516 Jurisdictiontomodifyadetermination. 61.517 Temporaryemergencyjurisdiction. 61.518 Notice;opportunitytobeheard;joinder. 61.519 Simultaneousproceedings. 61.520 Inconvenientforum. 61.521 Jurisdictiondeclinedbyreasonofconduct. 61.522 Informationtobesubmittedtothecourt. 61.523 Appearanceofpartiesandchild. 61.524 Definitions. 61.525 EnforcementundertheHagueConvention. 61.526 Dutytoenforce. 61.527 Temporaryvisitation. 61.528 Registrationofchildcustodydetermination. 61.529 Enforcementofregistereddetermination. 61.530 Simultaneousproceedings. 61.531 Expeditedenforcementofchildcustodydetermination. 61.532 Serviceofpetitionandorder. 61.533 Hearingandorder. 61.534 Warranttotakephysicalcustodyofchild. 61.535 Costs,fees,andexpenses. 61.536 Recognitionandenforcement. 61.537 Appeals. 61.538 Roleofstateattorney. 61.539 Roleoflawenforcementofficers. 61.540 Costsandexpenses.
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61.541 Applicationandconstruction. 61.542 Transitionalprovision. 61.501 Shorttitle.ThispartmaybecitedastheUniformChildCustody JurisdictionandEnforcementAct. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.502 Purposesofpart;constructionofprovisions.Thegeneralpurposes ofthispartareto: (1) Avoidjurisdictionalcompetitionandconflictwithcourtsofother statesinmattersofchildcustodywhichhaveinthepastresultedinthe shiftingofchildrenfromstatetostatewithharmfuleffectsontheirwell being. (2) Promotecooperationwiththecourtsofotherstatestotheendthata custodydecreeisrenderedinthestatethatcanbestdecidethecaseinthe interestofthechild. (3) Discouragetheuseoftheinterstatesystemforcontinuing controversiesoverchildcustody. (4) Deterabductions. (5) Avoidrelitigatingthecustodydecisionsofotherstatesinthisstate. (6) Facilitatetheenforcementofcustodydecreesofotherstates. (7) Promoteandexpandtheexchangeofinformationandotherformsof mutualassistancebetweenthecourtsofthisstateandthoseofotherstates concernedwiththesamechild. (8) Makeuniformthelawwithrespecttothesubjectofthispartamong thestatesenactingit. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.503 Definitions. Asusedinthispart,theterm: (1) Abandonedmeansleftwithoutprovisionforreasonableand necessarycareorsupervision. (2) Childmeansanindividualwhohasnotattained18yearsofage. (3) Childcustodydeterminationmeansajudgment,decree,orother orderofacourtprovidingforthelegalcustody,physicalcustody,residential care,orvisitationwithrespecttoachild.Thetermincludesapermanent,
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temporary,initial,andmodificationorder.Thetermdoesnotincludeanorder relatingtochildsupportorothermonetaryobligationofanindividual. (4) Childcustodyproceedingmeansaproceedinginwhichlegal custody,physicalcustody,residentialcare,orvisitationwithrespecttoachild isanissue.Thetermincludesaproceedingfordivorce,separation,neglect, abuse,dependency,guardianship,paternity,terminationofparentalrights, andprotectionfromdomesticviolence,inwhichtheissuemayappear.The termdoesnotincludeaproceedinginvolvingjuveniledelinquency, contractualemancipation,orenforcementunderss.61.52461.540. (5) Commencementmeansthefilingofthefirstpleadingina proceeding. (6) Courtmeansanentityauthorizedunderthelawsofastateto establish,enforce,ormodifyachildcustodydetermination. (7) Homestatemeansthestateinwhichachildlivedwithaparentora personactingasaparentforatleast6consecutivemonthsimmediatelybefore thecommencementofachildcustodyproceeding.Inthecaseofachild youngerthan6monthsofage,thetermmeansthestateinwhichthechild livedfrombirthwithanyofthepersonsmentioned.Aperiodoftemporary absenceofanyofthementionedpersonsispartoftheperiod. (8) Initialdeterminationmeansthefirstchildcustodydetermination concerningaparticularchild. (9) Issuingcourtmeansthecourtthatmakesachildcustody determinationforwhichenforcementissoughtunderthispart. (10) Issuingstatemeansthestateinwhichachildcustody determinationismade. (11) Modificationmeansachildcustodydeterminationthatchanges, replaces,supersedes,orisotherwisemadeafterapreviousdetermination concerningthesamechild,regardlessofwhetheritismadebythecourtthat madethepreviousdetermination. (12) Personmeansanindividual,corporation,businesstrust,estate, trust,partnership,limitedliabilitycompany,association,jointventure,or
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government;governmentalsubdivision,agency,instrumentality,orpublic corporation;oranyotherlegalorcommercialentity. (13) Personactingasaparentmeansaperson,otherthanaparent, who: (a) Hasphysicalcustodyofthechildorhashadphysicalcustodyfora periodof6consecutivemonths,includinganytemporaryabsence,within1 yearimmediatelybeforethecommencementofachildcustodyproceeding; and (b) Hasbeenawardedachildcustodydeterminationbyacourtorclaims arighttoachildcustodydeterminationunderthelawsofthisstate. (14) Physicalcustodymeansthephysicalcareandsupervisionofa child. (15) StatemeansastateoftheUnitedStates,theDistrictofColumbia, PuertoRico,theUnitedStatesVirginIslands,oranyterritoryorinsular possessionsubjecttothejurisdictionoftheUnitedStates. (16) TribemeansanIndiantribe,orband,orAlaskanNativevillage thatisrecognizedbyfederallaworformallyacknowledgedbyastate. (17) Warrantmeansanorderissuedbyacourtauthorizinglaw enforcementofficerstotakephysicalcustodyofachild. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.504 Proceedingsgovernedbyotherlaw. Thispartdoesnotgoverna proceedingpertainingtotheauthorizationofemergencymedicalcarefora child. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.505 ApplicationtoIndiantribes. (1) AchildcustodyproceedingthatpertainstoanIndianchild,asdefined intheIndianChildWelfareAct,25U.S.C.ss.1901etseq.,isnotsubjecttothis parttotheextentthatitisgovernedbytheIndianChildWelfareAct. (2) AcourtofthisstateshalltreatatribeasifitwereastateoftheUnited Statesforpurposesofapplyingss.61.50161.523.
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(3) Achildcustodydeterminationmadebyatribeunderfactual circumstancesinsubstantialconformitywiththejurisdictionalstandardsof thispartmustberecognizedandenforcedunderss.61.52461.540. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.506 Internationalapplicationofpart. (1) Acourtofthisstateshalltreataforeigncountryasifitwereastateof theUnitedStatesforpurposesofapplyingss.61.50161.523. (2) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinsubsection(3),achildcustody determinationmadeinaforeigncountryunderfactualcircumstancesin substantialconformitywiththejurisdictionalstandardsofthispartmustbe recognizedandenforcedunderss.61.52461.540. (3) Acourtofthisstateneednotapplythispartifthechildcustodylawof aforeigncountryviolatesfundamentalprinciplesofhumanrights. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.507 Effectofchildcustodydetermination.Achildcustody determinationmadebyacourtofthisstatewhichhadjurisdictionunderthis partbindsallpersonswhohavebeenservedinaccordancewiththelawsof thisstateornotifiedinaccordancewiths.61.509orwhohavesubmittedtothe jurisdictionofthecourt,andwhohavebeengivenanopportunitytobeheard. Astothosepersons,thedeterminationisconclusiveastoalldecidedissuesof lawandfactexcepttotheextentthedeterminationismodified. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.508 Priority. Ifaquestionofexistenceorexerciseofjurisdictionunder thispartisraisedinachildcustodyproceeding,thequestion,uponrequestof aparty,mustbegivenpriorityonthecalendarandhandledexpeditiously. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.509 Noticetopersonsoutsidethestate. (1) Noticerequiredfortheexerciseofjurisdictionwhenapersonis outsidethisstatemaybegiveninamannerprescribedbythelawsofthestate inwhichtheserviceismade.Noticemustbegiveninamannerreasonably calculatedtogiveactualnotice,butmaybemadebypublicationifother meansarenoteffective.
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(2) Proofofservicemaybemadeinthemannerprescribedbythelawsof thestateinwhichtheserviceismade. (3) Noticeisnotrequiredfortheexerciseofjurisdictionwithrespecttoa personwhosubmitstothejurisdictionofthecourt. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.510 Appearanceandlimitedimmunity. (1) Apartytoachildcustodyproceeding,includingamodification proceeding,orapetitionerorrespondentinaproceedingtoenforceor registerachildcustodydetermination,isnotsubjecttopersonaljurisdiction inthisstateforanotherproceedingorpurposesolelybyreasonofhaving participated,orofhavingbeenphysicallypresentforthepurposeof participating,intheproceeding. (2) Apersonwhoissubjecttopersonaljurisdictioninthisstateonabasis otherthanphysicalpresenceisnotimmunefromserviceofprocessinthis state.Apartypresentinthisstatewhoissubjecttothejurisdictionofanother stateisnotimmunefromserviceofprocessallowableunderthelawsofthat state. (3) Theimmunitygrantedbysubsection(1)doesnotextendtocivil litigationbasedonanactunrelatedtotheparticipationinaproceedingunder thispartwhichwascommittedbyanindividualwhilepresentinthisstate. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.511 Communicationbetweencourts. (1) Acourtofthisstatemaycommunicatewithacourtinanotherstate concerningaproceedingarisingunderthispart. (2) Thecourtshallallowthepartiestoparticipateinthecommunication. Ifthepartieselecttoparticipateinthecommunication,theymustbegiventhe opportunitytopresentfactsandlegalargumentsbeforeadecisionon jurisdictionismade. (3) Communicationbetweencourtsonschedules,calendars,court records,andsimilarmattersmayoccurwithoutinformingtheparties.A recordneednotbemadeofthecommunication.
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(4) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedinsubsection(3),arecordmustbemade ofacommunicationunderthissection.Thepartiesmustbeinformed promptlyofthecommunicationandgrantedaccesstotherecord. (5) Forpurposesofthissection,thetermrecordmeansaformof information,including,butnotlimitedto,anelectronicrecordingor transcriptionbyacourtreporterwhichcreatesaverbatimmemorializationof anycommunicationbetweentwoormoreindividualsorentities. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.512 Takingtestimonyinanotherstate. (1) Inadditiontootherproceduresavailabletoaparty,apartytoachild custodyproceedingmayoffertestimonyofwitnesseswhoarelocatedin anotherstate,includingtestimonyofthepartiesandthechild,bydeposition orothermeansavailableinthisstatefortestimonytakeninanotherstate.The courtonitsownmotionmayorderthatthetestimonyofapersonbetakenin anotherstateandmayprescribethemannerinwhichandthetermsupon whichthetestimonyistaken. (2) Uponagreementoftheparties,acourtofthisstatemaypermitan individualresidinginanotherstatetobedeposedortotestifybytelephone, audiovisualmeans,orotherelectronicmeansbeforeadesignatedcourtorat anotherlocationinthatstate.Acourtofthisstateshallcooperatewithcourts ofotherstatesindesignatinganappropriatelocationforthedepositionor testimony. (3) Documentaryevidencetransmittedfromanotherstatetoacourtof thisstatebytechnologicalmeansthatdonotproduceanoriginalwritingmay notbeexcludedfromevidenceonanobjectionbasedonthemeansof transmission. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.513 Cooperationbetweencourts;preservationofrecords. (1) Acourtofthisstatemayrequesttheappropriatecourtofanotherstate to: (a) Holdanevidentiaryhearing;
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(b) Orderapersontoproduceorgiveevidencepursuanttothelawsof thatstate; (c) Orderthatanevaluationbemadewithrespecttothecustodyofa childinvolvedinapendingproceedingpursuanttothelawsofthestate wheretheproceedingispending; (d) Forwardtothecourtofthisstateacertifiedcopyofthetranscriptof therecordofthehearing,theevidenceotherwisepresented,andany evaluationpreparedincompliancewiththerequest;or (e) Orderapartytoachildcustodyproceedingoranypersonhaving physicalcustodyofthechildtoappearintheproceedingwithorwithoutthe child. (2) Uponrequestofacourtofanotherstate,acourtofthisstatemayhold ahearingorenteranorderdescribedinsubsection(1). (3) Travelandothernecessaryandreasonableexpensesincurredunder subsections(1)and(2)maybeassessedagainstthepartiesaccordingtothe lawsofthisstateifthecourthaspersonaljurisdictionoverthepartyagainst whomtheseexpensesarebeingassessed. (4) Acourtofthisstateshallpreservethepleadings,orders,decrees, recordsofhearings,evaluations,andotherpertinentrecordswithrespecttoa childcustodyproceedinguntilthechildattains18yearsofage.Upon appropriaterequestbyacourtorlawenforcementofficialofanotherstate,the courtshallforwardacertifiedcopyoftheserecords. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.514 Initialchildcustodyjurisdiction. (1) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.517,acourtofthisstatehas jurisdictiontomakeaninitialchildcustodydeterminationonlyif: (a) Thisstateisthehomestateofthechildonthedateofthe commencementoftheproceeding,orwasthehomestateofthechildwithin6 monthsbeforethecommencementoftheproceedingandthechildisabsent fromthisstatebutaparentorpersonactingasaparentcontinuestolivein thisstate;
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(b) Acourtofanotherstatedoesnothavejurisdictionunderparagraph (a),oracourtofthehomestateofthechildhasdeclinedtoexercise jurisdictiononthegroundsthatthisstateisthemoreappropriateforum unders.61.520ors.61.521,and: 1. Thechildandthechildsparents,orthechildandatleastoneparentor apersonactingasaparent,haveasignificantconnectionwiththisstateother thanmerephysicalpresence;and 2. Substantialevidenceisavailableinthisstateconcerningthechilds care,protection,training,andpersonalrelationships; (c) Allcourtshavingjurisdictionunderparagraph(a)orparagraph(b) havedeclinedtoexercisejurisdictiononthegroundsthatacourtofthisstate isthemoreappropriateforumtodeterminethecustodyofthechildunders. 61.520ors.61.521;or (d) Nocourtofanyotherstatewouldhavejurisdictionunderthecriteria specifiedinparagraph(a),paragraph(b),orparagraph(c). (2) Subsection(1)istheexclusivejurisdictionalbasisformakingachild custodydeterminationbyacourtofthisstate. (3) Physicalpresenceof,orpersonaljurisdictionover,apartyorachildis notnecessaryorsufficienttomakeachildcustodydetermination. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.515 Exclusive,continuingjurisdiction. (1) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.517,acourtofthisstatewhich hasmadeachildcustodydeterminationconsistentwiths.61.514ors.61.516 hasexclusive,continuingjurisdictionoverthedeterminationuntil: (a) Acourtofthisstatedeterminesthatthechild,thechildsparents,and anypersonactingasaparentdonothaveasignificantconnectionwiththis stateandthatsubstantialevidenceisnolongeravailableinthisstate concerningthechildscare,protection,training,andpersonalrelationships;or (b) Acourtofthisstateoracourtofanotherstatedeterminesthatthe child,thechildsparent,andanypersonactingasaparentdonotpresently resideinthisstate.
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(2) Acourtofthisstatewhichhasmadeachildcustodydetermination anddoesnothaveexclusive,continuingjurisdictionunderthissectionmay modifythatdeterminationonlyifithasjurisdictiontomakeaninitial determinationunders.61.514. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.516 Jurisdictiontomodifyadetermination.Exceptasotherwise providedins.61.517,acourtofthisstatemaynotmodifyachildcustody determinationmadebyacourtofanotherstateunlessacourtofthisstatehas jurisdictiontomakeaninitialdeterminationunders.61.514(1)(a)or(b)and: (1) Thecourtoftheotherstatedeterminesitnolongerhasexclusive, continuingjurisdictionunders.61.515orthatacourtofthisstatewouldbea moreconvenientforumunders.61.520;or (2) Acourtofthisstateoracourtoftheotherstatedeterminesthatthe child,thechildsparents,andanypersonactingasaparentdonotpresently resideintheotherstate. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.517 Temporaryemergencyjurisdiction. (1) Acourtofthisstatehastemporaryemergencyjurisdictionifthechild ispresentinthisstateandthechildhasbeenabandonedoritisnecessaryin anemergencytoprotectthechildbecausethechild,orasiblingorparentof thechild,issubjectedtoorthreatenedwithmistreatmentorabuse. (2) Ifthereisnopreviouschildcustodydeterminationthatisentitledto beenforcedunderthispart,andachildcustodyproceedinghasnotbeen commencedinacourtofastatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516,a childcustodydeterminationmadeunderthissectionremainsineffectuntilan orderisobtainedfromacourtofastatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.514 61.516.Ifachildcustodyproceedinghasnotbeenorisnotcommencedina courtofastatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516,achildcustody determinationmadeunderthissectionbecomesafinaldeterminationifitso providesandthisstatebecomesthehomestateofthechild. (3) Ifthereisapreviouschildcustodydeterminationthatisentitledtobe enforcedunderthispart,orachildcustodyproceedinghasbeencommenced
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inacourtofastatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516,anyorder issuedbyacourtofthisstateunderthissectionmustspecifyintheordera periodthatthecourtconsidersadequatetoallowthepersonseekinganorder toobtainanorderfromthestatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516. Theorderissuedinthisstateremainsineffectuntilanorderisobtainedfrom theotherstatewithintheperiodspecifiedortheperiodexpires. (4) Acourtofthisstatewhichhasbeenaskedtomakeachildcustody determinationunderthissection,uponbeinginformedthatachildcustody proceedinghasbeencommencedin,orachildcustodydeterminationhas beenmadeby,acourtofastatehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516, shallimmediatelycommunicatewiththeothercourt.Acourtofthisstate whichisexercisingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516,uponbeinginformed thatachildcustodyproceedinghasbeencommencedin,orachildcustody determinationhasbeenmadeby,acourtofanotherstateunderastatute similartothissectionshallimmediatelycommunicatewiththecourtofthat statetoresolvetheemergency,protectthesafetyofthepartiesandthechild, anddetermineaperiodforthedurationofthetemporaryorder. History.s.5,ch.200265;s.7,ch.20031. 61.518 Notice;opportunitytobeheard;joinder. (1) Beforeachildcustodydeterminationismadeunderthispart,notice andanopportunitytobeheardinaccordancewiththestandardsofs.61.509 mustbegiventoallpersonsentitledtonoticeunderthelawsofthisstateasin childcustodyproceedingsbetweenresidentsofthisstate,anyparentwhose parentalrightshavenotbeenpreviouslyterminated,andanypersonactingas aparent. (2) Thispartdoesnotgoverntheenforceabilityofachildcustody determinationmadewithoutnoticeoranopportunitytobeheard. (3) Theobligationtojoinapartyandtherighttointerveneasapartyina childcustodyproceedingunderthispartaregovernedbythelawsofthis stateasinchildcustodyproceedingsbetweenresidentsofthisstate. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.519 Simultaneousproceedings.
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(1) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.517,acourtofthisstatemaynot exerciseitsjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.524if,atthetimeofthe commencementoftheproceeding,aproceedingconcerningthecustodyofthe childhadbeencommencedinacourtofanotherstatehavingjurisdiction substantiallyinconformitywiththispart,unlesstheproceedinghasbeen terminatedorisstayedbythecourtoftheotherstatebecauseacourtofthis stateisamoreconvenientforumunders.61.520. (2) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.517,acourtofthisstate,before hearingachildcustodyproceeding,shallexaminethecourtdocumentsand otherinformationsuppliedbythepartiespursuanttos.61.522.Ifthecourt determinesthatachildcustodyproceedingwaspreviouslycommencedina courtinanotherstatehavingjurisdictionsubstantiallyinaccordancewiththis part,thecourtofthisstateshallstayitsproceedingandcommunicatewiththe courtoftheotherstate.Ifthecourtofthestatehavingjurisdiction substantiallyinaccordancewiththispartdoesnotdeterminethatthecourtof thisstateisamoreappropriateforum,thecourtofthisstateshalldismissthe proceeding. (3) Inaproceedingtomodifyachildcustodydetermination,acourtof thisstateshalldeterminewhetheraproceedingtoenforcethedetermination hasbeencommencedinanotherstate.Ifaproceedingtoenforceachild custodydeterminationhasbeencommencedinanotherstate,thecourtmay: (a) Staytheproceedingformodificationpendingtheentryofanorderofa courtoftheotherstateenforcing,staying,denying,ordismissingthe proceedingforenforcement; (b) Enjointhepartiesfromcontinuingwiththeproceedingfor enforcement;or (c) Proceedwiththemodificationunderconditionsitconsiders appropriate. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.520 Inconvenientforum. (1) Acourtofthisstatewhichhasjurisdictionunderthisparttomakea childcustodydeterminationmaydeclinetoexerciseitsjurisdictionatany
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timeifitdeterminesthatitisaninconvenientforumunderthecircumstances andthatacourtofanotherstateisamoreappropriateforum.Theissueof inconvenientforummayberaiseduponmotionofaparty,thecourtsown motion,orrequestofanothercourt. (2) Beforedeterminingwhetheritisaninconvenientforum,acourtofthis stateshallconsiderwhetheritisappropriateforacourtofanotherstateto exercisejurisdiction.Forthispurpose,thecourtshallallowthepartiesto submitinformationandshallconsiderallrelevantfactors,including: (a) Whetherdomesticviolencehasoccurredandislikelytocontinuein thefutureandwhichstatecouldbestprotectthepartiesandthechild; (b) Thelengthoftimethechildhasresidedoutsidethisstate; (c) Thedistancebetweenthecourtinthisstateandthecourtinthestate thatwouldassumejurisdiction; (d) Therelativefinancialcircumstancesoftheparties; (e) Anyagreementofthepartiesastowhichstateshouldassume jurisdiction; (f) Thenatureandlocationoftheevidencerequiredtoresolvethe pendinglitigation,includingtestimonyofthechild; (g) Theabilityofthecourtofeachstatetodecidetheissueexpeditiously andtheproceduresnecessarytopresenttheevidence;and (h) Thefamiliarityofthecourtofeachstatewiththefactsandissuesin thependinglitigation. (3) Ifacourtofthisstatedeterminesthatitisaninconvenientforumand thatacourtofanotherstateisamoreappropriateforum,itshallstaythe proceedingsuponconditionthatachildcustodyproceedingbepromptly commencedinanotherdesignatedstateandmayimposeanyothercondition thecourtconsidersjustandproper. (4) Acourtofthisstatemaydeclinetoexerciseitsjurisdictionunderthis partifachildcustodydeterminationisincidentaltoanactionfordivorceor anotherproceedingwhilestillretainingjurisdictionoverthedivorceorother proceeding. History.s.5,ch.200265.
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61.521 Jurisdictiondeclinedbyreasonofconduct. (1) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.517orbyotherlawofthisstate, ifacourtofthisstatehasjurisdictionunderthispartbecauseapersonseeking toinvokeitsjurisdictionhasengagedinunjustifiableconduct,thecourtshall declinetoexerciseitsjurisdictionunless: (a) Theparentsandallpersonsactingasparentshaveacquiescedinthe exerciseofjurisdiction; (b) Acourtofthestateotherwisehavingjurisdictionunderss.61.514 61.516determinesthatthisstateisamoreappropriateforumunders.61.520; or (c) Nocourtofanyotherstatewouldhavejurisdictionunderthecriteria specifiedinss.61.51461.516. (2) Ifacourtofthisstatedeclinestoexerciseitsjurisdictionunder subsection(1),itmayfashionanappropriateremedytoensurethesafetyof thechildandpreventarepetitionoftheunjustifiableconduct,including stayingtheproceedinguntilachildcustodyproceedingiscommencedina courthavingjurisdictionunderss.61.51461.516. (3) Ifacourtdismissesapetitionorstaysaproceedingbecauseitdeclines toexerciseitsjurisdictionundersubsection(1),itshallassessagainsttheparty seekingtoinvokeitsjurisdictionnecessaryandreasonableexpenses, includingcosts,communicationexpenses,attorneysfees,investigativefees, expensesforwitnesses,travelexpenses,andexpensesforchildcareduring thecourseoftheproceedings,unlessthepartyfromwhomfeesaresought establishesthattheassessmentwouldbeclearlyinappropriate.Thecourtmay notassessfees,costs,orexpensesagainstthisstateunlessauthorizedbylaw otherthanthispart. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.522 Informationtobesubmittedtothecourt. (1) SubjecttoFloridalawprovidingfortheconfidentialityofprocedures, addresses,andotheridentifyinginformationinachildcustodyproceeding, eachparty,initsfirstpleadingorinanattachedaffidavit,shallgive information,ifreasonablyascertainable,underoathastothechildspresent
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addressorwhereabouts,theplaceswherethechildhaslivedduringthelast5 years,andthenamesandpresentaddressesofthepersonswithwhomthe childhaslivedduringthatperiod.Thepleadingoraffidavitmuststate whethertheparty: (a) Hasparticipated,asapartyorwitnessorinanyothercapacity,inany otherproceedingconcerningthecustodyoforvisitationwiththechildand,if so,identifythecourt,thecasenumber,andthedateofthechildcustody determination,ifany; (b) Knowsofanyproceedingthatcouldaffectthecurrentproceeding, includingproceedingsforenforcementandproceedingsrelatingtodomestic violence,protectiveorders,terminationofparentalrights,andadoptionsand, ifso,identifythecourt,thecasenumber,andthenatureoftheproceeding; and (c) Knowsthenamesandaddressesofanypersonnotapartytothe proceedingwhohasphysicalcustodyofthechildorclaimsrightsoflegal custodyorphysicalcustodyof,orvisitationwith,thechildand,ifso,the namesandaddressesofthosepersons. (2) Iftheinformationrequiredbysubsection(1)isnotfurnished,the court,uponmotionofapartyoritsownmotion,maystaytheproceeding untiltheinformationisfurnished. (3) Ifthedeclarationastoanyoftheitemsdescribedinparagraphs(1)(a) (c)isintheaffirmative,thedeclarantshallgiveadditionalinformationunder oathasrequiredbythecourt.Thecourtmayexaminethepartiesunderoath astodetailsoftheinformationfurnishedandothermatterspertinenttothe courtsjurisdictionandthedispositionofthecase. (4) Eachpartyhasacontinuingdutytoinformthecourtofany proceedinginthisoranyotherstatewhichcouldaffectthecurrent proceeding. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.523 Appearanceofpartiesandchild. (1) Inachildcustodyproceedinginthisstate,thecourtmayorderaparty totheproceedingwhoisinthisstatetoappearbeforethecourtinpersonwith
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orwithoutthechild.Thecourtmayorderanypersonwhoisinthisstateand whohasphysicalcustodyorcontrolofthechildtoappearinpersonwiththe child. (2) Ifapartytoachildcustodyproceedingwhosepresenceisdesiredby thecourtisoutsidethisstate,thecourtmayorderthatanoticegivenpursuant tos.61.509includeastatementdirectingthepartytoappearinpersonwithor withoutthechildandinformingthepartythatfailuretoappearmayresultin adecisionadversetotheparty. (3) Thecourtmayenteranyordersnecessarytoensurethesafetyofthe childandofanypersonorderedtoappearunderthissection. (4) Ifapartytoachildcustodyproceedingwhoisoutsidethisstateis directedtoappearundersubsection(2)ordesirestoappearinpersonbefore thecourtwithorwithoutthechild,thecourtmayrequireanotherpartyto payreasonableandnecessarytravelandotherexpensesofthepartyso appearingandofthechild. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.524 Definitions. Asusedinss.61.52461.540,theterm: (1) Petitionermeansapersonwhoseeksenforcementofanorderfor returnofachildundertheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbductionorenforcementofachildcustody determination. (2) Respondentmeansapersonagainstwhomaproceedinghasbeen commencedforenforcementofanorderforreturnofachildundertheHague ConventionontheCivilAspectsofInternationalChildAbductionor enforcementofachildcustodydetermination. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.525 EnforcementundertheHagueConvention.Underthispart,a courtofthisstatemayenforceanorderforthereturnofachildmadeunder theHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsofInternationalChildAbduction asifitwereachildcustodydetermination. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.526 Dutytoenforce.
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(1) Acourtofthisstateshallrecognizeandenforceachildcustody determinationofacourtofanotherstateifthelattercourtexercised jurisdictioninsubstantialconformitywiththispartorthedeterminationwas madeunderfactualcircumstancesmeetingthejurisdictionalstandardsofthis partandthedeterminationhasnotbeenmodifiedinaccordancewiththis part. (2) Acourtofthisstatemayuseanyremedyavailableunderotherlawsof thisstatetoenforceachildcustodydeterminationmadebyacourtofanother state.Theremediesprovidedbyss.61.52461.540arecumulativeanddonot affecttheavailabilityofotherremediestoenforceachildcustody determination. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.527 Temporaryvisitation. (1) Acourtofthisstatewhichdoesnothavejurisdictiontomodifyachild custodydeterminationmayissueatemporaryorderenforcing: (a) Avisitationschedulemadebyacourtofanotherstate;or (b) Thevisitationprovisionsofachildcustodydeterminationofanother statewhichdoesnotprovideforaspecificvisitationschedule. (2) Ifacourtofthisstatemakesanorderunderparagraph(1)(b),itshall specifyintheorderaperiodthatitconsidersadequatetoallowthepetitioner toobtainanorderfromacourthavingjurisdictionunderthecriteriaspecified inss.61.51461.523.Theorderremainsineffectuntilanorderisobtainedfrom theothercourtortheperiodexpires. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.528 Registrationofchildcustodydetermination. (1) Achildcustodydeterminationissuedbyacourtofanotherstatemay beregisteredinthisstate,withorwithoutasimultaneousrequestfor enforcement,bysendingtothecircuitcourtofthecountywherethepetitioner orrespondentresidesorwhereasimultaneousrequestforenforcementis sought: (a) Aletterorotherdocumentrequestingregistration;
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(b) Twocopies,includingonecertifiedcopy,ofthedeterminationsought toberegisteredandastatementunderpenaltyofperjurythat,tothebestof theknowledgeandbeliefofthepersonseekingregistration,theorderhasnot beenmodified;and (c) Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins.61.522,thenameandaddressofthe personseekingregistrationandanyparentorpersonactingasaparentwho hasbeenawardedcustodyorvisitationinthechildcustodydetermination soughttoberegistered. (2) Onreceiptofthedocumentsrequiredbysubsection(1),theregistering courtshall: (a) Causethedeterminationtobefiledasaforeignjudgment,together withonecopyofanyaccompanyingdocumentsandinformation,regardless oftheirform;and (b) Servenoticeuponthepersonsnamedpursuanttoparagraph(1)(c)and providethemwithanopportunitytocontesttheregistrationinaccordance withthissection. (3) Thenoticerequiredbyparagraph(2)(b)muststatethat: (a) Aregistereddeterminationisenforceableasofthedateofthe registrationinthesamemannerasadeterminationissuedbyacourtofthis state; (b) Ahearingtocontestthevalidityoftheregistereddeterminationmust berequestedwithin20daysafterserviceofnotice;and (c) Failuretocontesttheregistrationwillresultinconfirmationofthe childcustodydeterminationandprecludefurthercontestofthat determinationwithrespecttoanymatterthatcouldhavebeenasserted. (4) Apersonseekingtocontestthevalidityofaregisteredordermust requestahearingwithin20daysafterserviceofthenotice.Atthathearing, thecourtshallconfirmtheregisteredorderunlessthepersoncontesting registrationestablishesthat: (a) Theissuingcourtdidnothavejurisdictionunderss.61.51461.523;
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(b) Thechildcustodydeterminationsoughttoberegisteredhasbeen vacated,stayed,ormodifiedbyacourthavingjurisdictiontodosounderss. 61.51461.523;or (c) Thepersoncontestingregistrationwasentitledtonotice,butnotice wasnotgiveninaccordancewiththestandardsofs.61.509intheproceedings beforethecourtthatissuedtheorderforwhichregistrationissought. (5) Ifatimelyrequestforahearingtocontestthevalidityofthe registrationisnotmade,theregistrationisconfirmedasamatteroflawand thepersonrequestingregistrationandallpersonsservedmustbenotifiedof theconfirmation. (6) Confirmationofaregisteredorder,whetherbyoperationoflawor afternoticeandhearing,precludesfurthercontestoftheorderwithrespectto anymatterthatcouldhavebeenassertedatthetimeofregistration. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.529 Enforcementofregistereddetermination. (1) Acourtofthisstatemaygrantanyreliefnormallyavailableunderthe lawsofthisstatetoenforcearegisteredchildcustodydeterminationmadeby acourtofanotherstate. (2) Acourtofthisstateshallrecognizeandenforcebutmaynotmodify, exceptinaccordancewithss.61.51461.523,aregisteredchildcustody determinationofanotherstate. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.530 Simultaneousproceedings. Ifaproceedingforenforcementunder ss.61.52461.540iscommencedinacourtofthisstateandthecourt determinesthataproceedingtomodifythedeterminationispendingina courtofanotherstatehavingjurisdictiontomodifythedeterminationunder ss.61.51461.523,theenforcingcourtshallimmediatelycommunicatewiththe modifyingcourt.Theproceedingforenforcementcontinuesunlessthe enforcingcourt,afterconsultationwiththemodifyingcourt,staysor dismissestheproceeding. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.531 Expeditedenforcementofchildcustodydetermination.
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(1) Apetitionunderss.61.52461.540mustbeverified.Certifiedcopiesof allorderssoughttobeenforcedandofanyorderconfirmingregistrationmust beattachedtothepetition.Acopyofacertifiedcopyofanordermaybe attachedinsteadoftheoriginal. (2) Apetitionforenforcementofachildcustodydeterminationmust state: (a) Whetherthecourtthatissuedthedeterminationidentifiedthe jurisdictionalbasisitrelieduponinexercisingjurisdictionand,ifso,specify thebasis; (b) Whetherthedeterminationforwhichenforcementissoughthasbeen vacated,stayed,ormodifiedbyacourtwhosedecisionmustbeenforced underthispartand,ifso,identifythecourt,thecasenumber,andthenature oftheproceeding; (c) Whetheranyproceedinghasbeencommencedthatcouldaffectthe currentproceeding,includingproceedingsrelatingtodomesticviolence, protectiveorders,terminationofparentalrights,andadoptionsand,ifso, identifythecourt,thecasenumber,andthenatureoftheproceeding; (d) Thepresentphysicaladdressofthechildandtherespondent,if known; (e) Whetherreliefinadditiontotheimmediatephysicalcustodyofthe childandattorneysfeesissought,includingarequestforassistancefromlaw enforcementofficersand,ifso,thereliefsought;and (f) Ifthechildcustodydeterminationhasbeenregisteredandconfirmed unders.61.528,thedateandplaceofregistration. (3) Uponthefilingofapetition,thecourtshallissueanorderdirecting therespondenttoappearinpersonwithorwithoutthechildatahearingand mayenteranyordernecessarytoensurethesafetyofthepartiesandthe child.Thehearingmustbeheldonthenextjudicialdayafterserviceofthe orderunlessthatdateisimpossible.Inthatevent,thecourtshallholdthe hearingonthefirstjudicialdaypossible.Thecourtmayextendthedateofthe hearingattherequestofthepetitioner.
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(4) Anorderissuedundersubsection(3)muststatethetimeandplaceof thehearingandadvisetherespondentthatatthehearingthecourtwillorder thatthepetitionermaytakeimmediatephysicalcustodyofthechildandthe paymentoffees,costs,andexpensesunders.61.535andmayschedulea hearingtodeterminewhetherfurtherreliefisappropriate,unlessthe respondentappearsandestablishesthat: (a) Thechildcustodydeterminationhasnotbeenregisteredand confirmedunders.61.528andthat: 1. Theissuingcourtdidnothavejurisdictionunderss.61.51461.523; 2. Thechildcustodydeterminationforwhichenforcementissoughthas beenvacated,stayed,ormodifiedbyacourtofastatehavingjurisdictionto dosounderss.61.51461.523;or 3. Therespondentwasentitledtonotice,butnoticewasnotgivenin accordancewiththestandardsofs.61.509intheproceedingsbeforethecourt thatissuedtheorderforwhichenforcementissought;or (b) Thechildcustodydeterminationforwhichenforcementissoughtwas registeredandconfirmedunders.61.528,buthasbeenvacated,stayed,or modifiedbyacourtofastatehavingjurisdictiontodosounderss.61.514 61.523. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.532 Serviceofpetitionandorder. Exceptasotherwiseprovidedins. 61.534,thepetitionandordermustbeservedbyanymethodauthorizedby thelawsofthisstateupontherespondentandanypersonwhohasphysical custodyofthechild. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.533 Hearingandorder. (1) Unlessthecourtentersatemporaryemergencyorderunders.61.517, uponafindingthatapetitionerisentitledtoimmediatephysicalcustodyof thechild,thecourtshallorderthatthepetitionermaytakeimmediate physicalcustodyofthechildunlesstherespondentestablishesthat: (a) Thechildcustodydeterminationhasnotbeenregisteredand confirmedunders.61.528andthat:
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1. Theissuingcourtdidnothavejurisdictionunderss.61.51461.523; 2. Thechildcustodydeterminationforwhichenforcementissoughthas beenvacated,stayed,ormodifiedbyacourtofastatehavingjurisdictionto dosounderss.61.51461.523;or 3. Therespondentwasentitledtonotice,butnoticewasnotgivenin accordancewiththestandardsofs.61.509intheproceedingsbeforethecourt thatissuedtheorderforwhichenforcementissought;or (b) Thechildcustodydeterminationforwhichenforcementissoughtwas registeredandconfirmedunders.61.528,buthasbeenvacated,stayed,or modifiedbyacourtofastatehavingjurisdictiontodosounderss.61.514 61.523. (2) Thecourtshallawardthefees,costs,andexpensesauthorizedunders. 61.535andmaygrantadditionalrelief,includingarequestfortheassistance oflawenforcementofficers,andsetafurtherhearingtodeterminewhether additionalreliefisappropriate. (3) Ifapartycalledtotestifyrefusestoansweronthegroundthatthe testimonymaybeselfincriminating,thecourtmaydrawanadverseinference fromtherefusal. (4) Aprivilegeagainstdisclosureofcommunicationsbetweenspouses andadefenseofimmunitybasedontherelationshipofhusbandandwifeor parentandchildmaynotbeinvokedinaproceedingunderss.61.52461.540. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.534 Warranttotakephysicalcustodyofchild. (1) Uponthefilingofapetitionseekingenforcementofachildcustody determination,thepetitionermayfileaverifiedapplicationfortheissuanceof awarranttotakephysicalcustodyofthechildifthechildislikelyto imminentlysufferseriousphysicalharmorremovalfromthisstate. (2) Ifthecourt,uponthetestimonyofthepetitionerorotherwitness, findsthatthechildislikelytoimminentlysufferseriousphysicalharmor removalfromthisstate,itmayissueawarranttotakephysicalcustodyofthe child.Thepetitionmustbeheardonthenextjudicialdayafterthewarrantis executedunlessthatdateisimpossible.Inthatevent,thecourtshallholdthe
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hearingonthefirstjudicialdaypossible.Theapplicationforthewarrantmust includethestatementsrequiredbys.61.531(2). (3) Awarranttotakephysicalcustodyofachildmust: (a) Recitethefactsuponwhichaconclusionofimminentseriousphysical harmorremovalfromthejurisdictionisbased; (b) Directlawenforcementofficerstotakephysicalcustodyofthechild immediately;and (c) Providefortheplacementofthechildpendingfinalrelief. (4) Therespondentmustbeservedwiththepetition,warrant,andorder immediatelyafterthechildistakenintophysicalcustody. (5) Awarranttotakephysicalcustodyofachildisenforceable throughoutthisstate.Ifthecourtfindsonthebasisofthetestimonyofthe petitionerorotherwitnessthatalessintrusiveremedyisnoteffective,itmay authorizelawenforcementofficerstoenterprivatepropertytotakephysical custodyofthechild.Ifrequiredbyexigentcircumstancesofthecase,thecourt mayauthorizelawenforcementofficerstomakeaforcibleentryatanyhour. (6) Thecourtmayimposeconditionsuponplacementofachildtoensure theappearanceofthechildandthechildscustodian. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.535 Costs,fees,andexpenses. (1) Solongasthecourthaspersonaljurisdictionoverthepartyagainst whomtheexpensesarebeingassessed,thecourtshallawardtheprevailing party,includingastate,necessaryandreasonableexpensesincurredbyoron behalfoftheparty,includingcosts,communicationexpenses,attorneysfees, investigativefees,expensesforwitnesses,travelexpenses,andexpensesfor childcareduringthecourseoftheproceedings,unlessthepartyfromwhom feesorexpensesaresoughtestablishesthattheawardwouldbeclearly inappropriate. (2) Thecourtmaynotassessfees,costs,orexpensesagainstastateunless authorizedbylawotherthanthispart. History.s.5,ch.200265.
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61.536 Recognitionandenforcement. Acourtofthisstateshallaccordfull faithandcredittoanorderissuedbyanotherstateandconsistentwiththis partwhichenforcesachildcustodydeterminationbyacourtofanotherstate unlesstheorderhasbeenvacated,stayed,ormodifiedbyacourthaving jurisdictiontodosounderss.61.51461.523. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.537 Appeals.Anappealmaybetakenfromafinalorderina proceedingunderss.61.52461.540inaccordancewithexpeditedappellate proceduresinothercivilcases.Unlessthecourtentersatemporary emergencyorderunders.61.517,theenforcingcourtmaynotstayanorder enforcingachildcustodydeterminationpendingappeal. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.538 Roleofstateattorney. (1) InacasearisingunderthispartorinvolvingtheHagueConventionon theCivilAspectsofInternationalChildAbduction,thestateattorneymay takeanylawfulaction,includingresorttoaproceedingunderss.61.524 61.540oranyotheravailablecivilproceeding,tolocateachild,obtainthe returnofachild,orenforceachildcustodydetermination,ifthereis: (a) Anexistingchildcustodydetermination; (b) Arequesttodosofromacourtinapendingchildcustody proceeding; (c) Areasonablebeliefthatacriminalstatutehasbeenviolated;or (d) Areasonablebeliefthatthechildhasbeenwrongfullyremovedor retainedinviolationoftheHagueConventionontheCivilAspectsof InternationalChildAbduction. (2) Astateattorneyactingunderthissectionactsonbehalfofthecourt andmaynotrepresentanyparty. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.539 Roleoflawenforcementofficers. Attherequestofastateattorney actingunders.61.538,alawenforcementofficermaytakeanylawfulaction reasonablynecessarytolocateachildorapartyandassistastateattorney withresponsibilitiesunders.61.538.
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History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.540 Costsandexpenses. Thecourtmayassessagainstthe nonprevailingpartyalldirectexpensesandcostsincurredbythestate attorneyandlawenforcementofficersunders.61.538ors.61.539solongas thecourthaspersonaljurisdictionoverthenonprevailingparty. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.541 Applicationandconstruction. Inapplyingandconstruingthis part,considerationmustbegiventotheneedtopromoteuniformityofthe lawwithrespecttoitssubjectmatteramongstatesthatenactit. History.s.5,ch.200265. 61.542 Transitionalprovision.Amotionorotherrequestforreliefmade inachildcustodyproceedingortoenforceachildcustodydeterminationthat wascommencedbeforetheeffectivedateofthispartisgovernedbythelaw ineffectatthetimethemotionorotherrequestwasmade. History.s.5,ch.200265.
Disclaimer:Theinformationonthissystemisunverified.Thejournalsorprintedbillsoftherespectivechambersshouldbeconsultedfor officialpurposes. Copyright20002012StateofFlorida.
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- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

CHAPTER61 DISSOLUTIONOF MARRIAGE; VIEWENTIRECHAPTER SUPPORT;TIME SHARING

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- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

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- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

61.08 Alimony. (1) Inaproceedingfordissolutionofmarriage,thecourtmaygrant

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

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- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate

- Chapter 61 - 2011 Florida Statutes - The Florida Senate