The parenting agreement is one of the things that can cause the divorce process to become a little complicated. Creating it is a significant decision-making responsibility for both parties, therefore, it is imperative that both parties have a clear understanding of what it entails. Prior to moving forward with the divorce or separation process, it is always recommended that you take the time to make sure that you understand everything about parenting agreements.
What Is A Parenting Agreement?
When a couple separates or divorces, a parenting plan outlines how they will raise their children. Specifically for children, parents not living together describe how they will care for their children and make decisions about them in both homes.
Parenting Agreement: What Are the Types?
1) Shared Parenting Agreement
When both parents share parenting responsibilities, they are given roughly the same amount of time with their children. Having a schedule set by both parents is the key to the success of this parenting agreements. You do not have any control over how decisions are made with shared parenting agreements.
2) Joint Parenting Agreement
The term joint parenting agreement refers to a parenting arrangement in which both parents make decisions equally for a child. This is most common since both parents are equally responsible for the child. Furthermore, communication and coordination should be smooth between both parents. It is unlikely to be approved if there is no communication or coordination between the parents.
3) Split Parenting Agreement
Families with multiple children need to consider split parenting agreements.
It is essential to maintain the child’s best interests when splitting parenting responsibilities, and each parent must prove to the court that they can provide the best care possible. Moreover, both parents must maintain clear and efficient communication during split parenting agreements.
4) Sole Parenting Agreement
In a sole parenting arrangement, the child’s decisions are made by only one parent. A parent with custody of the child, however, remains free to express his or her opinions, and stay informed, but the final decision is made by the parent with custody. Usually, they arise when one parent is abusive or incapable of making decisions.
What Should My Parenting Agreement Include?
1) Child Custody
In divorces with children, custody is undoubtedly one of the most disputed issues. In order to determine physical custody, it is essential to determine where the child will live for the majority of the time as well as who will provide day-to-day care. Physical custody is decided by the court according to your state’s best interest factors if you cannot decide who should have it.
2) Visitation
It is important to create a parenting time schedule (or visitation schedule) for the non-custodial parent. Ensure the noncustodial parent has access to the child via a visitation schedule. The children are used to seeing both parents on a regular basis, so it’s essential to create a schedule that will minimize the disruption to the children after divorce.
3) Legal Custody
A court will usually award both parents joint legal custody of their children. You can have a say in medical care, religious upbringing, and education decisions if you have legal custody of your child. Legal custody of your child should be explained in your agreement, along with what happens if there is a disagreement between you and the other parent.
4) Child Support
Supporting a child is no doubt a sensitive issue. However, the law clearly states that your children are entitled to financial support from both parents, regardless of custody. Child support payments should be outlined in your agreement. Your family law divorce lawyer can guide you with the procedures to calculate your child support obligation based on your information.
Contact Hussain Law for a Free Divorce Consultation
At Hussain Law, we focus on helping our clients navigate separation and divorce’s emotional and financial challenges. If you have a family law issue or want to prepare for divorce that you need assistance with, please contact Ayesha Hussain a divorce lawyer in Toronto at 647-428-3919.
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