Writing up a Parental Agreement: Tips and Guidelines

A parental agreement, also known as a parenting plan, is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of child custody and visitation rights. It is a written agreement between two parents who may be separated, divorced, or unmarried, but are both responsible for the care and well-being of their child or children.

In this article, we will provide tips and guidelines on how to write up a parental agreement that is fair, comprehensive, and in compliance with state laws.

1. Start with a template.

There are many templates available online that can provide a basic framework for writing a parental agreement. You can start with a template and customize it to fit your specific needs and circumstances. Make sure to choose a template that is specific to your state to ensure that it complies with state laws.

2. Include basic information.

The parental agreement should include basic information such as the full names of both parents, the name and age of the child or children, and the date the agreement is being signed. It should also include contact information such as phone numbers and addresses.

3. Define legal and physical custody.

Legal custody refers to the right to make major decisions about the child`s upbringing such as education, religion, and medical care. Physical custody refers to where the child physically resides and how much time the child spends with each parent.

The parental agreement should clearly define legal and physical custody arrangements. For example, the agreement may state that both parents have joint legal custody, but one parent has primary physical custody. The agreement should also include a detailed parenting schedule that outlines when the child will be with each parent.

4. Address child support.

Child support is the financial contribution that one parent makes to the other for the care and support of the child. The parental agreement should clearly state how much child support will be paid and when it will be paid.

5. Include provisions for holidays and vacations.

The parental agreement should include provisions for holidays and vacations. This may include which parent has the child for specific holidays such as Christmas or Thanksgiving. It should also include provisions for summer vacation and any other vacations that may be taken throughout the year.

6. Consider special needs.

If your child has special needs such as medical or educational needs, these should be addressed in the parental agreement. This may include specific instructions for medical care or therapy, or educational requirements such as special tutoring or accommodations.

7. Be specific and detailed.

The parental agreement should be specific and detailed to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings. It should include specific dates and times for visitation, transportation arrangements, and any other important details.

8. Consistency is key.

Once a parental agreement is in place, it is important for both parents to be consistent in adhering to the terms of the agreement. Consistency helps to maintain stable and healthy relationships between the child and both parents.

In conclusion, writing up a parental agreement can be a complex and emotional process. It is important to approach it with consideration and care to ensure that the needs of the child are met. By following these tips and guidelines, you can create a fair and comprehensive parental agreement that is in compliance with state laws and meets the needs of everyone involved.