When you and your spouse decide that your marriage is no longer working, filing for divorce may be in your best interest. However, when you share a child, you must prepare for the likelihood of joint custody. Unfortunately, custody is often the most contentious aspect of divorce, as both parents often believe they should have more time with the child. As such, it is critical to understand what parenting plans are, what information you can find in yours, and how to ensure your plan is successful and beneficial for your child. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the benefits of working with Long Island child custody lawyers to help you determine what you should include in your parenting plan.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is an agreement created by divorcing parents, or the court if the parents cannot reach an agreement, that details how the couple will work together to raise their child despite no longer being in a relationship.
First and foremost, the most important thing included in this document is the custody arrangement. When you and your spouse divorce but share a child, the court will examine a number of factors to determine how custody should be decided. Above all else, however, the court will adhere to the child’s best interest standard, prioritizing the health, happiness, and well-being of the child above all else. Once custody is determined, the court will include it as the basis of your parenting plan.
In addition to custody, a parenting plan can include information about conflict resolution between the parents, guidelines for communicating and sharing important information regarding the child, and how to make decisions for the child.
What Can I Include to Ensure This Plan is Successful?
First and foremost, it’s imperative to remember that the primary goal of a parenting plan is to create the best possible environment for the child.
In addition to the aforementioned information, you may want to include matters related to new partners. This can help prevent conflict down the road. For example, if either parent should enter a new relationship, you may want to include a stipulation that the other parent must meet the new partner before they are introduced to the child. Additionally, you may want to include stipulations on overnight guests.
You may also want to include guidelines for communicating with the child when they are in the custody of the other parent. For example, you may want to include a daily 20-minute phone call while limiting other communication so the child can focus on spending time with their other parent.
Creating a successful parenting plan is critical to ensure you can set your child up for success during these difficult matters. As such, one of the most important things you can do during this process is connect with an experienced family law attorney with Sklavos Law Firm. We understand how difficult these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you fight for the best possible outcome for you and your family. Contact us today to learn more.
