It is no secret that child custody is one of the most contested issues in a divorce. Missouri parents often find it difficult to come to reasonable agreements on things like visitation, schedules and more. If you are facing divorce, you may wonder how you can have more control over the future instead of leaving the final custody order in the hands of an impersonal court.
Fortunately, two parents have the right to work together on a parenting plan that will allow them to protect their child’s interests above all else. When you agree to work on an agreement out of court, you will have a stronger say in how visitation and custody will work. This can allow you to prioritize the unique needs of your kids. After all, who knows your kids as well as you and the other parent do?
Staying out of court
Some parents are not able to agree on any terms, and discussions and negotiations are out of the question. This may not be the case for your family. If you and the other parent are willing to respectfully approach the subject of your kids’ best post-divorce future and discuss things peacefully, crafting a parenting plan that will work well for the whole family is possible. As you consider this, the following questions may be helpful:
- Can you and the other parent work together, even if you do not necessarily get along?
- Do your children have special needs that are served better by crafting your own uniquely specific parenting plan?
- Can you and the other parent work together to make decisions for your children after divorce?
- Do you want your children to have access to grandparents and extended family members?
- How will you and your spouse resolve any future disputes after the divorce is final?
The answers to these and other questions may prove helpful as you look to build a future for your kids that allows them to have stability and security. Even when working together with the other parent, you still have the right to seek a final agreement that protects your parental rights and allows you to have a strong relationship with your kids.
Even if litigation is not necessary for your situation, you will find significant benefit in working with an attorney who can help you understand your rights and draft a final plan that will meet both the court’s requirements and the needs of your family.