Deciding how to divide child custody and visitation can be an extreme source of stress for both parents. The thought of having to split the time you have with your child with another parent may not be appealing, especially when you have been used to seeing the child all of the time. The court will generally allow parents to come up with a parenting plan, which will be approved or rejected by a judge.

What do we need to address in our parenting plan?

Parenting plans specifically relate to any aspect concerning the well-being of the child, including with who and where the child will live in order to ensure the child grows up in the best possible environment. When parents are able to work together to develop a parenting plan, they have the benefit of choosing what works best for their individual schedules and making sure that the child gets time with all those that care for them.

When a parenting plan is suggested to the court, they will be looking for:

• Parent's work schedules
• Educational schedule of the child
• How the child's extracurricular activities will be affected
• Transportation between the two homes
• Ability for the child to see extended family
• Child care concerns
• Ability for the parents to interact in front of their children

Based on these concerns, a detailed plan should be addressed that details what the child's regular living situation will be, when the other parent gets to spend time with the child, how holidays and vacations will be divided, how the parents will communicate with one another, and who has the power to make decisions on behalf of the child.

Should the need to change the parenting plan arise at any time, it can be modified with the permission of the court. If a parent refuses to abide by the agreed upon terms and conditions of the parenting plan, then the court also has permission to step in. The court may remove custody or require that the parent attend counseling.

If you are seeking to develop a parenting plan, it is recommended that you not only consult with a mediator, but also hire a family law attorney that help you figure out the best point of compromise for your situation. Our directory can help you find an experienced family law attorney in your area.