One of the most difficult aspects of separating from your spouse is negotiating how child custody will be managed. A parenting plan is an agreement that outlines how custody arrangements will look post-divorce.
Once the courts have assessed and approved the plan, it becomes binding in law, so it is important to get it right. Unfortunately, such plans do not always go accordingly and this is often the result of errors made during its creation. Outlined below are some of the common errors to avoid when coming up with your parenting plan.
Instructions for medical care
Parents often neglect to include specific terms about how the medical care of the child will be managed. Dental treatment, doctors’ appointments and hospital care should all be included in a sound parenting plan. Importantly, because the cost of living can be worrisome after a divorce, provisions should be made as to how exactly both parents will handle the future medical costs of their child.
A lack of clarity
When parents are able to remain amicable both during and after divorce, complacency can often surface. The fact that you are able to get along should not be taken for granted, and your parenting plan should be specific in nature. While some flexibility may be appropriate, a clear parenting plan offers you guidance should any disputes arise. This can negate the risk of lengthy conflict and matters having to be addressed by the courts.
Co-parenting after a divorce can be challenging but it is possible for both parents to continue meeting the needs of their children. As you navigate through the obstacles of divorce, it is important to remember that you have legal rights in California.
