Working out child custody issues may involve negotiating parenting time plans. Both can be emotionally challenging. Parents who are able to set aside their differences and work together can create a parenting plan that meets the needs of the child and both parents. In fact, a parent plan can make a tough situation have a smoother transition. Before creating a parenting plan, always contact a family law attorney millburn nj. A parent should always have a legal representative with them to understand their rights and how to negotiate in the best interest of themselves and their child.
What is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is a specific guideline parents use to outline which parent spends time with their child and when. This is a schedule that is similar to a work schedule. Each parent knows when they pick up their child, where and when the child is returned to the other parent.
Parenting time outlined in a parenting plan regardless of whether a parent has physical custody or visitation. It is important to explain that parenting time in a plan goes beyond telling the amount of time a parent shares when their child. Instead, it specifically outlines who gets what time such as if a father has their child on Monday, Thursday and Friday.
Constructing a Parenting Plan in New Jersey
No all parents will have the same parenting plan. These plans are unique to each family. To create a plan, a practical assessment of each family member’s lifestyle must be taken into account. Although they are specific to each family, there are some common considerations include a child’s age, parents’ work schedule and the child’s extracurricular activities.
Once a parenting plan is created, it is not set in stone. Life changes and a parenting plan may need to change. This is especially true when as a child grows older and has more responsibilities such as a part-time job or extracurricular activities. However, it is always helpful if each parent has a lawyer to help negotiate changing terms.
Know the Terms included in the Parenting Plan
Parenting plans are the most effective way to create a solid foundation for a child. This means a child doesn’t wonder who they will spend time with on any given day. However, a parenting plan can have some flexibility to help parents such as who will pick up the child when they at school and sick.
The best parenting plans fit the needs of all parties involved. The plans also include terms that creating an understanding for all parties, including children. These terms include who has legal and physical child custody, a detailed description of the time-sharing arrangement. The description of any potential changes in the arrangement such as school vacations and holidays.
Any provisions that need to be made for transportation should also be addressed in all parenting plans. Access to school and medical records should be included in the parenting plan along with who has the right to keep copies of these records.