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The Basics of a Parenting Agreement

On Behalf of | Oct 30, 2019 | Child Custody and Visitation

What are the basics of a parenting agreement in North County or Carlsbad?  If you are considering or in the process of a divorce and have children you will need to create a document known as a “parenting agreement.”  The parenting agreement must specify the schedule for when children will stay with each parent and establish each parent’s authority to make important decisions regarding the children’s education, heath and welfare.

A parenting agreement may cover a wide range of topics.  These might include where the child will go to school and how to pay for it, who will pay for the child’s medical care and take the child to the doctor, as well as participation in extra-curricular activities.  The parenting agreement should contain a detailed visitation schedule covering each child’s weekly, bi-weekly or monthly schedule as well as how vacations, school breaks and holidays will be managed and divided between each parent.

Parenting plans and child custody authority are common points of challenge in a North County or Carlsbad divorce.  Resolving disagreements regarding child custody and parenting time are one of the keys to ensuring a timely and cost-effective divorce.  In some cases the parties are generally in agreement on the basics of a parenting agreement but may need help working through and resolving the details.

The experienced Certified Family Law Specialists at Burke & Domercq help to prepare our clients for these important conversations.  If the former spouses are in agreement regarding the terms of the parenting plan our paralegals carefully craft an enforceable agreement which is reviewed by our attorneys.  We often negotiate on behalf of our client with opposing counsel to resolve details within the parenting plan.

The parties may also wish to consider mediation as an option to resolve areas of disagreement and finish an enforceable plan.  If the parties are unable to reach an agreement the Court will hear the case and ultimately decide the matter.  Many studies have shown former spouses who participate in the process of establishing a parenting plan through negotiation or mediation are much more likely to abide by that agreement once the divorce is finalized.

These are the basics of a parenting agreement but the most important ingredient in this process is the best interests of the child.  We invite you to learn more and contact Burke & Domercq or call 760-389-3927 to schedule an appointment.

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