As a parent, there is only so much you can plan for. Much of a parent's day can involve adjusting to surprises and making new plans when the original plans fall through. However, having a plan in the first place can help you avoid certain surprises and be prepared should something unexpected occur.
This is why parenting plans are such critical tools for Tennessee parents who share custody of a child. If you are or will be sharing custody of your child, you should understand the many items that can and should be part of an effective parenting plan.
Generally speaking, parenting plans establish intentions and rules so that parents and children know what to expect in a shared custody arrangement. They can also establish remedies for dealing with disputes or unanticipated complications.
More specifically, parenting plans address details including:
- Methods for conflict resolution
- Transportation logistics
- Regular, holiday and vacation schedules
- Decision-making responsibilities
- Child support
- Communication guidelines
Having these matters addressed in a parenting plan can help everyone involved know what to expect. Even if you and the other parent of your child get along just fine, you can still be at odds when it comes to the details of raising a child separately as time goes on. Further, while you may not plan for certain complications or disputes to arise, they can and do despite everyone's best efforts.
Having a plan in place for these situations can prove to be a valuable resource in helping you navigate through them while protecting the best interests of your child.
Considering all that a parenting plan can do and protect, it is not something to take lightly. It should be thoughtfully prepared and consistently followed. Failure to comply with a parenting plan can have legal, logistical and/or emotional consequences for you and your kids.
Any parent with questions about creating or enforcing a parenting plan would be wise to discuss their concerns with an attorney.