Going through the divorce process is not easy for all parties involved, especially if you have children. In this case, you may need to craft a mutual custody arrangement. Thankfully, a family lawyer from Lawrence Law Office can help you with this aspect. A great attorney knows that you and your children deserve the peace of mind despite the split. When making a child custody agreement, here are tips to help you get it right:
Control Your Emotions
Divorce is usually an emotional process; however, you need to try to put your emotions aside and prioritize the interests of your children (see here). You and your ex will have to determine a lot of tough circumstances. This is the reason you need to keep records of any communication you have had with your ex over the years.
Regardless of how amicable you and your ex are with one another, child custody issues are always riddled with emotions, according to CitizensAdvice. Sometimes, you may be confused about what you want, what you think is best for your child, and what’s in their best interests. However, your choices should always be in your child’s best interests. Your actions must be best for their safety, health, and welfare. This will help you decide terms in your child custody arrangements.
Make a Customizable Parenting Schedule
When you decide on a parenting schedule earlier than later, you can prevent future confusion and disagreements. You and your ex may agree on flexible parenting now; however, when disagreements come up, you will regret not filing a court motion to have more time with your child.
When you create your custody agreement, be as detailed as possible. Include custody and visitation schedules for the weekly routine, summers, weekends, and holidays of your child. Also, be specific in who will pick and drop them off from visitations.
Decide the Kind of Custody Every Parent Will Have
Speak with your co-parent regarding the kind of custody arrangements that fits the unique needs of your child. Even if you are not on good terms with your ex, try to come to a conclusion on who gets legal or physical custody.
Moreover, it will be hard to enforce a child custody arrangement that does not have certain designations. Will you or your ex-spouse have sole legal custody? Will you share custody of your child? Your attorney can help you reach an agreement in this matter.
In addition, your custody arrangement must include provisions on church and spiritual practices. You or your spouse may go through a spiritual awakening following your divorce and this can impact your children.