Creating A Fair Custody Agreement: Tips for Parents Going Through Divorce

Going through a divorce is an emotionally exhausting process. It can be especially difficult for parents who are trying to create a custody agreement, one that allows them to continue to be involved in their children’s lives. Creating a fair and balanced custody agreement can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it is possible to create an arrangement that is best for everyone involved. With some patience and understanding, parents can work together to create a parenting plan that meets the needs of their family and respects both of their rights as parents. Keep reading to learn more.

Balancing Parental Rights And Best Interests Of The Child

When creating a fair custody agreement, it is important to remember that parental rights must always be balanced with the best interests of the child. It is crucial to remember this when you are discussing visitation and decision-making. You want to make sure that you are equitably sharing your decisions and parenting time, but you do not want to compromise the health, safety, and happiness of your child. It is important to keep these things in mind as you go through the process of creating a parenting plan that works for you and your co-parent.  Approaches such as child-inclusive mediation can help. This method acknowledges the importance of the child’s perspective in the decision-making process, ensuring their voice is heard.”

Getting Legal Aid

If you cannot come to an agreement on your own, you will probably need to get help from legal aid solicitors to assist you through the legal process and represent you in court. It might be daunting when you first begin the search for legal aid, but you can make things easier by taking a look at the National Legal Service, which have experts in many different types of law, including solicitors who can help you navigate custody agreements.

Working With A Mediator

Mediators are often used in divorce cases as a less adversarial way of resolving disputes. Mediators do not judge the merits of your case. Instead, they try to help you and your ex come to an agreement that is in the best interests of your children. Mediators are neutral third-party professionals who have experience dealing with divorce and custody issues.

Communicating With Your Co-Parent

It will likely be necessary for you to communicate with your ex throughout the process of creating a custody agreement. There are a few ways that you and your ex can communicate throughout the process. If you are working with a mediator, you and your ex can communicate with the mediator either in person or by telephone. The method of communication really depends on the preferences of both you and your ex.

Establishing A Parenting Plan

Once you and your ex have come to an agreement on custody and other legal issues in your divorce, you can start to implement your new parenting plan. This parenting plan will be the official document outlining how you will co-parent and what your child custody arrangement will be. Your parenting plan will include all the details regarding your child custody agreement, including who your child will live with, what visitation schedule works best, and any other details related to your child custody agreement. Before officially signing a parenting plan, make sure you understand everything in it. If you don’t fully understand something, ask questions and make sure you get an answer before signing.