As your divorce case continues forward, you may have one thing on your mind: doing whatever it takes to put your marriage in the past as quickly as possible.
While it’s okay to feel this way, you don’t want to make rash decisions that could impact you in the future.
For example, creating the right parenting agreement during your divorce will help avoid future trouble. Even though you want nothing to do with your ex-spouse after your divorce is finalized, it doesn’t mean you feel the same way about your children.
A comprehensive parenting agreement includes many things, such as:
- Which parent has physical custody of the children (where your children will live)
- A visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent
- If one or both parents have legal custody of the children
- A schedule outlining where the children will spend holidays, vacations and other events throughout the year
- A system for contact with extended family members, such as grandparents
If you’re concerned about future disagreements, you can also add language about how to handle disputes and changes. This will give you and your ex-spouse a clear idea of how to approach any issues that arise.
If you create a parenting agreement in mediation, it’s then submitted to a family law judge for final approval. As long as everything checks out, you can move forward with your life, following the details outlined in the agreement.
Violation of a parenting agreement
It’s your hope that both you and your ex-spouse always follow the language detailed in the parenting agreement. Unfortunately, you never know what the future could bring.
For example, the other parent may decide that your children are spending the entire holiday season with them. If your parenting agreement says differently, you have a problem on your hands.
If either parent violates the court approved parenting agreement, the other person has the power to take legal action. This won’t make things any better in regard to your relationship, but it may be something you have to do to protect your time with your children.
If all else has failed, don’t hesitate to protect your legal rights by ensuring that your parenting agreement is enforced. This is best for both you and your children.