Making the decision to dissolve a marriage can be a daunting task, especially if the future of any children is a factor. Child custody can be one of the tougher aspects of divorce, and in some cases, may prove to be a highly contested topic. Fortunately, Michigan parents may be able to reduce the difficulty of the situation by focusing on what is important in a successful parenting plan prior to entering negotiations.
There may be a multitude of variables to evaluate when negotiating such an agreement. One factor to consider involves the age and scheduling needs of the kids, such as those pertaining to school and extra-curricular activities. The work schedule and physical location of each parent may also play a role in the process, and seeking an agreement that meets the needs of the children while allowing them ample access to each party may seem somewhat challenging.
In addition to accounting for everyday schedules, a parent might also find it helpful to plan for special occasions such as holidays and birthdays. Parents may also wish to continue to provide their children with stability following divorce, and discussing responsibilities concerning child-related expenses may be necessary. Parents may also need to discuss how to handle major decisions regarding education and health care, as failing to do so could cause unnecessary conflict in the future.
Many individuals may also find it helpful to come up with a sample child custody agreement that covers all necessary topics prior to entering negotiations. Since this can be a daunting task, a parent could significantly benefit from the counsel of a family law attorney. An experienced attorney can assist a parent in covering all aspects of divorce and provide advice on how to best pursue and create a parenting plan that is in the best interests of the children.
Source: Our Family Wizard, “How to Write a Successful Parenting Plan,” Gloria Kopp, accessed Jan. 17, 2018
