In a divorce where children are involved, settling on a fair and foolproof co-parenting plan is essential to their health and happiness. A co-parenting plan is typically a written document that outlines how each parent will raise their children during a separation and after a divorce. This plan should be developed with the child’s best interest in mind, putting their needs above each parent’s individual desires.
General Details Of A Co-Parenting Plan
A co-parenting plan should include details that pertain to the child’s schedule, how minor and major decisions concerning the child should be made, how to communicate and exchange information related to the child, and how parental disputes will be resolved. With a written plan, family members will have a valuable reference of what is expected of them and how to proceed through any unforeseen circumstances that can arise.
Child-Centered Format
While your attorney will have templates for developing your co-parenting plan, it is crucial to keep the focus child-centered. Divorce is a stressful experience, especially for fathers; having a solid and fair co-parenting plan can help alleviate some of this stress for men and their children. Children need to maintain routine relationships with each parent and to be shielded from any ongoing parental conflict. Your plan should fit your family’s circumstances while ensuring the child’s best interest remains at its core.
Identify And Address Core Aspects
Certain specific core aspects should be addressed in your co-parenting plan. Educational and extracurricular activities, parent’s work schedules, holiday and summer vacation schedules and any health related concerns need to be clearly outlined. It is vital to stay as specific as possible when creating the framework for the plan so that there is no room for confusion or loop holes. For example, specifying an exact time and place for pickup or delivery of child rather than a general idea will keep things running smoothly for everyone involved.
Legal Counsel And Advice
As with any matter that involves your divorce, seeking the advice of legal councel is appropriate when developing a co-parenting plan. Your attorney is well versed in the framework of these plans and how your rights may be affected in the process of their development. Protecting yourself, and your child is essential when making decisions regarding your family and it’s livelihood. As a parent, your focus should remain on constructing a well thought out and detailed co-parenting plan that encompasses your child’s needs and how they will be met by you and the other parent.
