As a parent undergoing the divorce process, there are many complicated challenges to overcome. Chief among them is determining child custody and building out a parenting plan with your soon-to-be ex-spouse.
Simply discussing your parenting responsibilities and coming to a verbal agreement is not enough, however. There are a few reasons why you and your co-parent should put a thorough parenting plan into writing as early as possible.
Allows you to control your family dynamic
If you do not submit your own parenting plan, the Florida Family Court will make a decision that it deems to be in the child’s best interests. The court’s decision might not satisfy either your or your co-parent, so it is preferable to work together to mutually retain control over family matters.
Minimizes time in court
If you and your co-parent are willing to work together in good faith to write a parenting plan through mediation, you can avoid stressful courtroom battles altogether. Approaching the court with a pre-written plan that both parties approve will streamline the entire process.
Protects your parental rights
A written and signed parenting plan is binding, so the family court will do its part to enforce the terms you and your co-parent provide. This ensures that both parties receive protection of their parental rights and that each parent fulfills their responsibilities to the best of their abilities.
Matters regarding parental responsibilities and child custody are of the highest importance in a divorce case. It is important to follow all best practices, including putting your parenting plan into writing, so that you can enjoy a healthy family dynamic for years to come.
