What Are Parenting Plans?
Generally, parenting plans will set out the roles each parent will play in their children’s lives, including decision-making authority (custody) and setting out the parenting time (access) the children will have with each parent, on a general basis and on special occasions, school holidays and religious holidays.
Such parenting plans also contain clauses to require a review or variation as circumstances change. Other common clauses that may be contained in a parenting plan include:
- How parents will communicate with each other about parenting issues.
- How parents will resolve their future disagreements.
- What each parent expects from the other in terms of disciple and daily routines.
- What happens if one parent is unable to care for the child during regularly scheduled parenting time.
Parenting plans may contain many other clauses, which are tailored to the family’s particular situation and needs.
While some parents may be able to develop such a plan quickly, smoothly, focusing on their child’s needs and best interests, for others, shifting to a co-parent relationship can prove to be difficult and lawyers, mediators, judges, and social workers are needed to play a critical role in helping to establish and define this new co-parenting arrangement.
Once a parenting plan is finalized, it then becomes incorporated into a separation agreement or a court order.
At Melekhovets Law, we understand the importance of establishing a detailed and effective parenting plan, with a focus on your children’s unique needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you.