Following your divorce and the determination of child custody, the next step is for you and your co-parent to agree on a parenting plan that promotes a healthy family dynamic. This is easier said than done if you cannot arrive at a mutually-agreeable plan.
You should strive to make a parenting plan that works for all parties involved. If you cannot come to an agreement with your ex-spouse, or if they insist on a parenting plan that blatantly favors one side, it may be necessary to learn how proper legal guidance can help you create a truly fair parenting plan.
Learn what goes into an ideal parenting plan
It is important to work with a legal team that has experience navigating divorce and custody issues, as this type of team can inform you on what a fair parenting plan should include. The priority is to minimize the negative impact of divorce on your child. This entails carefully dividing parenting responsibilities, establishing a balanced schedule that does not interfere with your child’s activities and writing guidelines for facilitating productive communication.
Advocate for the parenting plan that works for everyone
Your legal team can advocate for the submission of a perfectly fair parenting plan. If you and your co-parent cannot agree on this plan, each party will submit their own plan to the court where a judge will determine which is in the child’s best interests. Without proper legal guidance on your side, the court might enforce its own parenting plan that does not fully satisfy either you or your co-parent.
The right parenting plan is one that works for you and your co-parent, but it should ultimately prioritize your child above all else. It is important to seek the kind of guidance that will help you fight for your child’s happiness.