Create A Parenting Plan That Works For Everyone
When you are going through a divorce, your biggest concern is probably your children. No matter how smooth you and your ex try to make it, your children are facing a big change in their young lives. An effective co-parenting plan after divorce can make a big difference in helping your children adjust to their new family dynamics.
The experienced family law attorneys at White & White, Attorneys at Law, can help you create a parenting plan that allows you to build a positive new future for your family. We have over 15 years of experience helping Tennessee families move forward past the pain of divorce and have input into how they will parent in the future.
Key Elements Of A Parenting Plan
Tennessee law requires that all custody and visitation plans be in the best interest of the child. Both parents can agree on a plan for the children, but the judge must ultimately sign off on the plan. You must use the court’s form to draft the plan. The judge will make sure the plan covers key elements, including:
- Daily schedules, including where the child will live
- Holiday and vacation schedules
- Transportation arrangements and exchange information
- How major decisions will be made
- Child support and financial matters, as determined by the child support worksheet
The judge prefers for you to have an agreement between both parents, but if you cannot agree, the judge will have to develop a plan for you. This gives you a lot less control over the outcome. At White & White Attorneys at Law, we have years of experience helping negotiate parenting plans. We can help you come up with a plan that will not only meet the judge’s requirements but also meet your own.
Keeping The Peace For The Kids’ Sake
Once the parenting plan is in place, there are several things you can do to make it work. We recommend the following co-parenting tips:
- Never disparage your ex in front of the children. This only creates stress for them because they end up in the middle. They love you both and do not want to take sides.
- Encourage a positive relationship with both parents. Not only is this good for your children, the court expects this, as well. If you throw up roadblocks in their time with your ex, you could be accused of alienation.
- Follow the agreement. Children do better with routine, especially after going through a traumatic change like a divorce. Knowing what to expect will help them adjust. Explain special days like holidays far in advance, and then stick to it.
- Keep rules consistent. Agree on consistent co-parenting rules so that the child has uniform structure.
Of course, unexpected things come up and adjustments may be needed, but these tips will go a long way to keeping the peace for your children’s benefit.
Discuss Your Parenting Plan Today
We are ready to help you with your parenting plan. Call our Seymour office today at 865-622-7768 or send an email to schedule your free initial consultation.