When you and your spouse make the choice to file for divorce, you are probably most concerned with what will happen with your children. You want to provide them with stability and continuity of lifestyle as much as possible. You may also strive to give them the opportunity to have a solid relationship with both parents, even after your divorce is final.
One way you can accomplish these goals is to have a good, solid and thoughtful parenting plan. You have the right to draft your plan instead of having an impersonal family court make these important choices on your behalf. As you make this plan, however, there are specific things for you to take into consideration as you make a schedule and make decisions that will impact your kids.
The foundation of a good plan
There is no one-size-fits-all parenting plan. The right choices for your Texas family will depend on your kids, their needs and what will work best for the parents. Divorce is difficult, and it is not always easy to remain objective during this emotional and stressful time. However, it is in the interests of your kids and yourself to keep your eyes on what will work best long-term. Some of the things you will want to consider as you draft a plan include:
- The right schedule for your kids and your work schedule
- Drop-off and pick-up procedures
- How parents will make important decisions for the kids
- Access to grandparents and extended family members
- How the two parents will resolve any disputes that arise
It is not always easy to set your own personal feelings to the side, but the main goal of any child custody agreement is to protect the best interests of the children above all else. Your child deserves a relationship with both parents that is stable and equitable, but this may require that you compromise when drafting a custody order.
Protecting your parental rights
Even though you want to craft a parenting plan that will work well for your children, you also want to strive to protect your parental rights as well. This is why it is useful for you to work with an experienced family law attorney from the beginning of the divorce process. When you have qualified and knowledgeable guidance, you can make decisions for your parenting that will serve your family well for years to come.
