Parenting plans are an essential part of any divorce involving children, and they’re made even easier online. They are not limited to couples going through divorce and can be used by those undergoing legal separation or are unmarried. As essential as they are, the process of making one is not easy and requires a lot of work and debate. To streamline this process, we have online services that can help people create a parenting plan in a way that reduces as much interaction as possible with attorneys and their spouses.
As online divorce attorneys, we at Untying the Knot Online understand that creating a parenting plan can be a challenging and emotional process for parents. That’s why we are here to guide you through this crucial step in your divorce proceedings.
What is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that outlines how they will share custody and make decisions regarding their children after divorce. It covers various aspects of co-parenting, including:
- Visitation schedules
- Holiday arrangements
- Decision-making authority
Having these can streamline an already complicated process and showcase to a court how you and your co-parent can still work together post-divorce/separation.
How Does it Work?
When filing for divorce, the court requires both parties to develop a parenting plan. This plan must be submitted during the divorce proceedings for approval. It is crucial to note that each state has its own set of guidelines and requirements for parenting plans. Therefore, it is essential to consult with an experienced attorney familiar with your state’s laws.
When Do Parents Get a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is typically created during the divorce process. However, it can also be requested by either parent after the divorce if there is a significant change in circumstances. This could include changes in work schedules, relocation, or any other factor that may affect the custody and visitation arrangement.
If you are unmarried, you can request one at any time with the help of an attorney. If paternity has not been legally established, this can help.
What Needs to Go in a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan should be comprehensive and cover all aspects of co-parenting to avoid future disputes. Here are some crucial elements that must be included in a parenting plan:
- Custody and visitation schedule: This should clearly outline when the children will spend time with each parent, including holidays, vacations, and special occasions.
- Decision-making authority: This addresses how parents will make decisions about their children’s health, education, religion, and other important matters.
- Communication methods: It is essential to establish effective communication methods between co-parents to ensure the smooth execution of the parenting plan.
- Child support: The non-custodial parent, if physical custody is not generally equal, has to pay an agreed-upon amount to the custodial parent to provide care for the child. If the courts believe the amount to be unfair and unacceptable, they can change it,
- Expenses: This outlines how the financial responsibilities for the children will be divided between both parents outside of child support.
- Dispute resolution process: In case of any disagreements or conflicts, a dispute resolution process should be in place to address them.
The Benefits of Creating a Parenting Plan Online
As divorce attorneys, we highly recommend creating a parenting plan. Creating one online only makes it easier. Not only is it more convenient and time-efficient, but it also allows for better communication and collaboration between parents. Our online tools provide helpful templates and guidelines to ensure the parenting plan is thorough and meets all legal requirements.
Check Out the Online Family Law Services at Untying the Knot
A parenting plan is a crucial document that outlines how divorced parents will co-parent their children. At the same time, you shouldn’t do so without following Florida’s guidelines and consulting with an experienced attorney. Thankfully, our online services can help you do both with our smooth and efficient process.
We recommend utilizing online resources to create your parenting plan. At Untying the Knot Online, we are dedicated to helping you navigate through this challenging time in your life and ensure the best outcome for you and your children. Check out our online services or contact us today for more information.