Definitions.
F.S. 88.70111
in effectAs used in this part, the term:
(1)
“Application” means a request under the convention by an obligee or obligor, or on behalf of a child, made through a central authority for assistance from another central authority.
(2)
“Central authority” means the entity designated by the United States or a foreign country described in s. 88.1011(5)(d) to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(3)
“Convention support order” means a support order of a tribunal of a foreign country described in s. 88.1011(5)(d).
(4)
“Direct request” means a petition filed by an individual in a tribunal of this state in a proceeding involving an obligee, obligor, or child residing outside the United States.
(5)
“Foreign central authority” means the entity designated by a foreign country described in s. 88.1011(5)(d) to perform the functions specified in the convention.
(6)
“Foreign support agreement”:
(a)
Means an agreement for support in a record that:
1.
Is enforceable as a support order in the country of origin;
2.
Has been:
a.
Formally drawn up or registered as an authentic instrument by a foreign tribunal; or
b.
Authenticated by or concluded, registered, or filed with a foreign tribunal; and
3.
May be reviewed and modified by a foreign tribunal; and
(b)
Includes a maintenance arrangement or authentic instrument under the convention.
(7)
“United States central authority” means the Secretary of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
Source: FL Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/Chapter88/AllFetched: 7/8/2026