Child Custody Law Facts: Is the Typical Parenting Plan Really in the Best Interests of Most Children in Alexandria, LA?

The standard parenting plan involves an arrangement in which children will spend most of their time with one parent while visiting with the other parent. The best interests of the child standard often pushes for stability in the child’s home life, which often translates into the idea that the child should primarily reside with only one parent. Yet, recent research suggests that parents may want to consider other alternatives when speaking to a child custody lawyer like Davey Jones with Jones Law Firm in Alexandria LA as they finalize their parenting plans.

According to Psychology Today, research suggests that shared parenting plans may be more ideal for a child’s development and well-being. A 50-50 parenting split, if possible, allows a child to maintain a healthy relationship with both parents. This arrangement, while more challenging for parents to negotiate, is often in the better interests of the child. In this arrangement, leisure time, weekends, and holidays are also evenly split.

Shared parenting also affords parents the right to make shared decisions in their children’s lives. Most courts support the right for both parents to play a role in their children’s lives.

When finalizing divorce papers, your parenting plan is one of the most important documents you’ll have to compose. The parenting plan doesn’t just determine who has custody and who can make decisions, but it should also be a robust document that anticipates conflict and offers a roadmap for how you and your former spouse will be successful co-parents to your children.

According to the Huffington Post, if you can manage it, it may be a good idea to meet with your spouse on a monthly basis to review any issues that arise with regard to your children. Children who move between parents may try to push the rules with one parent, leading to resentment, anger, and frustration both for the children and for the parents. Having clear rules that you can agree upon will create consistency. During your meeting, you can address behavioral issues, school issues, or any other concerns that arise. Meeting with your spouse can also reduce the chance that children will be used as messengers or go-betweens. Children should never be asked to send messages to the other parent. If you can’t meet with your spouse, send e-mails, or, hire a counselor or mediator to help you handle challenging interactions.

Finally, remember that even the most detailed parenting plan won’t address each and every issue that will come up. Leave room for change, growth, and compromise. You and your ex won’t likely agree about all rules for your children, and there will be times when your schedules conflict. Finding the middle ground is important in order to keep your children healthy and your family happy.

        

A child custody lawyer in Alexandria, LA can assist you in finding a parenting plan that best meets your family’s needs. Every family is unique, so it is important that you find a plan that works for you, your ex, and your children.

Visit www.hdjoneslaw.com or call 318-442-14515 to speak with an attorney.