Creating a Parenting Plan After Separation

Once a couple decides to split up, there are many questions to move forward when you have child[ren] together. Some people think one person will have sole custody when the children live with them for a majority of the time. This is not true. Sole custody (now called legal decision-making) means one parent makes all of the legal decisions for the child[ren. Joint legal decision-making means you both make decisions with regard to their child[ren]’s medical, educational and religion matters.

What about parenting time?

The most common parenting schedule is a 5/2/2/5 equal schedule. This schedule usually means one parent has the child[ren] for instance, every Monday and Tuesday (2 days), the other parent has them every Wednesday and Thursday (2 days) and then the parents alternate every weekend (making them have 5 days in a row) along with sharing the holidays, special occasions, etc.

Another common schedule is the week-on/week-off schedule where they exchange the child[ren] every week at the same time (for instance every Sunday at 6:00 p.m.)

Equal parenting time is best if both parents live in close proximity to each other and when you are able to co-parent effectively.

Why a Written Parenting Plan Matters

It is important to have a written agreement that details each parent’s access to their child[ren]. If you and your co-parent are both in agreement (uncontested) and are looking to establish a joint Legal decision-making parenting plan, we can assist with either full-representation or document preparation of the documents necessary to file with the Court your agreement.

Please call (480) 598-8724 to set up a free telephone consultation so we can discuss the costs and process. An uncontested agreement can be drawn up cheaper than a contested matter. When the parties do not agree, it is contested.