If you are facing divorce, helping your children adjust to the next chapter in their lives will be top of mind.
Many divorcing parents choose mediation and sit down together to work out an effective parenting plan. In doing so, here are five mistakes to avoid.
1. Neglecting to include pertinent details
One of the essential areas of a parenting agreement is the custody schedule, but there are other details to include. For example, you should explain which parent will take charge of making major decisions on behalf of the children and which will have access to the children’s medical and school records.
2. Leaving out travel restrictions
A custody schedule should include timesharing for holidays, vacations and summer breaks. However, you may want to state that neither parent may take the children out of the country without the other parent’s permission.
3. Failing to establish time for reviews
Changes happen in life. Do not forget to set up a regular schedule to review the parenting plan and make whatever adjustments are necessary.
4. Leaving out dispute resolution plans
The court will want to know how you and the other parent will manage future childrearing disagreements following the divorce. Be sure to address this in your plan.
5. Using vague language
The wording used in a parenting plan should be clear and easy to read in order to avoid any misunderstandings. Clear language is especially important in setting forth the custody schedule.
Moving ahead
Keep in mind that a parenting plan is a legal document. Do your best to make a comprehensive plan that will find favor with the court and serve as your guide to co-parenting in the best interests of your children.
