Connecticut parents who are going through a divorce naturally have concerns about what will happen to their children. Parenting plans must be drafted as part of a divorce agreement, and those people who have amicable relationships with their soon-to-be exes may think a detailed plan unnecessary. However, circumstances and relationships change, and a parenting plan may turn out to be a vital tool.
The future will always be a mystery, and amicable relationships may become strained. Some ex-spouses may be fortunate enough to remain friendly throughout their lives. However, when remarriages occur and new spouses and their children are added to the mix, things may become more challenging. Also, with changed job schedules or one parent relocating, parenting without a plan can be loaded with problems.
Parenting plans are not necessarily set in stone. While parents get along well, they are free to arrange parenting schedules to suit their circumstances. The agreed upon plans may become critical when the relationship changes and parents can no longer agree. This is when the parenting plan that formed part of the divorce judgment will come into play and dictate when each parent will see the children.
Even if it seems an unnecessary document at the time of the divorce, a parenting plan should be drafted with careful consideration. The dynamics of every family are unique and negotiating an agreement that accommodates those unique needs may be difficult. Many Connecticut parents utilize the services of an experienced family law attorney and/or a divorce mediator to guide them through the process. Such professionals can ensure that nothing is left unaddressed, and that all future eventualities are considered.
Source: The Huffington Post, “How to Make a Parenting Schedule that Works”, Karen Covy, March 4, 2016