Sample of a thorough parenting plan found here

Even when there is little or no conflict between spouses it is especially beneficial and important to have a thorough and comprehensive parenting plan/custody agreement in place. This eliminates confusion should an unforseen conflict arise down the road. Parents don’t necessarily have to follow the plan word-for-word if they remain flexible, however should circumstances change, it is a solid plan they can fall back on to avoid unnecessary litigation.

Components of a Good Parenting Plan:

-A Schedule that is clear with specific dates, times, locations of pick-up/drop-off for the week, month and years

– A description of who will be responsible when a parent is unavailable during their designated parenting time with children (often called “first right of refusal of care”) and what arrangements will be agreed upon including a baby sitter or leaving children with relatives

-A transportation agreement as to who will transport children to and from co-parents

-A clause on how the co-parents will manage disputes

-Details on who pays and how the financial needs of the child will be met

-How decisions for the child will be made regarding education, medical needs, extracurricular activities and religion practices

-An ultimate decision making clause when parents disagree

For a great sample parenting plan and complete description of recommended parenting plans by age of child please buy our new book Family Divorce 101 -A Guide to What Divorcing Families Should Know

or our book for Therapists:   Family Divorce Therapy 101 -A Clinician’s Guide to Best Practices for Treating Families Pre/During/Post Divorce (Amazon)

For more divorce advice, custody agreement information and cost saving tips please buy our book Transitions Divorce® Prep Workbook

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Disclaimer: This is my personal blog. The opinions I express here do not necessarily represent those of my organization, Transitions Resource, LLC. The information I provide is on an as-is basis. I make no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this blog and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

The post Why a Thorough Divorce Parenting Plan is Important first appeared on Divorce Mediation Center.