Divorce is never easy. It becomes even more complicated when children are involved. Because no two families are alike, it can be challenging to construct an effective parenting plan that can fit the needs of both parents and the children. To get the best results it is vital to seek representation from an experienced and knowledgeable Salt Lake City divorce attorney. Here is a general template on how to create a parenting plan.
Keep it Simple and Concise
One of the most important factors when creating a parenting plan is to make sure each parent understands its conditions. The plan should educate the reader about the family’s situation. Keep in mind, the parenting plan is not just for both parents. It will also be read by the judge and other people who are also involved in the legal process.
Keep it Real
To construct an effective parenting plan, it is vital to be as honest as possible. It is important not to embellish or exaggerate your situation. Make sure all information is factual. An experienced and knowledgeable divorce attorney can be a huge asset. They can properly draft a plan which properly represents your interests. They can also educate the client on their parental rights. For example, parents have the right to express their views, including their plans and expectations for their children. One of the most common mistakes made by parents is making harsh criticisms against their former spouse. Generally, these comments are not viewed favorably by the court. Remember, a parenting plan is not meant to express your marital problems or your ex’s faults.
Your Ex Has Rights Too
When it comes to divorce, it is understandable for each party to address only their own needs. In most divorces involving children, joint custody is typically the norm. That means each parent also needs to respect the right of their former spouse to have a relationship with their child. There are exceptions. If your former spouse has a history of domestic violence, substance abuse or a criminal history, then joint custody should not be considered an option.
Presentation is Important
A well-written and designed parenting plan can have a huge positive impact on the judge. It may seem like common sense. However, far too many failed parenting plans include spelling mistakes, grammatical errors and are not properly formatted. Your divorce attorney should have a staff of legal professionals that can provide valuable assistance to complete your plan in a clear and concise manner.
A Salt Lake City Divorce Attorney Can Help
There are so many different facets that go into finalizing a divorce. Having the right legal professional on your side can often make the difference between receiving a favorable settlement or losing custody or visitation rights to your children. Salt Lake City divorce attorneyEmy A. Cordano brings nearly two decades of experience helping clients achieve their goals. She and her staff understand the unique challenges and obstacles divorcing parents face on a regular basis. To learn more about how she can help, contact her law office, and schedule a consultation to discuss your case.