Facing divorce or the end of a relationship? Wondering how best to arrange child care? How much weight does your child's opinion carry in a child care arrangement? And what are your rights as a parent? If these questions are on your mind, it is time to seek expert legal advice. We are here to help you find the right solution for your family.
What is a custody agreement?
A custody arrangement determines how parents share the care and upbringing of their children after a divorce. It includes agreements about where the child will live, how often the child will spend time with the other parent, and who will be responsible for certain decisions, such as schooling and medical care. Making arrangements for care and access is also an important part of the process.
Important Issues in the Care Arrangement
- Place of residence: Which parent will have the child's permanent residence?
- Parenting plan: Agreements about sharing parenting responsibilities, school choice, medical care, and vacations.
- Communication: How will both parents stay informed about the child's well-being?
- The child's input: As children get older, their opinions may play a greater role in decisions.
Care arrangement versus visitation arrangement
There is an important difference between a care arrangement and a visitation arrangement. A care arrangement is based on shared responsibility for the care and upbringing of the child. Both parents are responsible for the parenting, with specific agreements about days and times. In a visitation arrangement, one parent is the primary caregiver and the other parent has the right to see the child at certain times. The distinction between these two arrangements is important from a legal standpoint when determining care and visitation.
Your child deserves the best care
When drawing up or adjusting an arrangement, the interests of the child are always the primary consideration when making or modifying an arrangement. Our attorneys will guide you in carefully crafting a care and access arrangement that protects both the child's rights and your rights as a parent. Would you like to know more about the process of a care and access arrangement? Or would you like to modify an existing arrangement? Please contact our team of family law attorneys for expert advice.
