Creating a strong and stable future for the children

Missouri parents who are walking through the divorce process are likely concerned with how the decisions they make will impact the mental and emotional well-being of their children. In order to minimize the negative impact and protect the kids, some parents choose to create their own parenting plan outside of court.

An out-of-court parenting plan is often a smart choice for families. If you are considering this option, it may be in your interests to ensure you craft a plan that is smart and beneficial for you and your children for years to come. The ultimate goal of any custody, visitation and parenting plan is the protection of the well-being of the kids above all other factors.

When a parent allows emotions to drive his or her decision-making during a divorce, the result can be a final order that is not sustainable. While divorce can be an emotionally challenging process, temporary feelings are often poor indicators of what will truly work well in the future. As you work on the terms of your parenting plan, include provisions that deal with the following concerns:

• How the child will transition from one parent’s house to the other house
• How parents will resolve any future disputes that may arise
• How parents will split parenting time and visitation time
• How a child will spend the holidays and important occasions
• How extended family members, such as grandparents and others, will see the kids

These are some of the most common issues that can affect a parenting plan. However, you may have specific concerns that are unique to your situation. When you and the other parent work on a settlement out of court, you can include provisions that address the issues that are specific to your family and life.

While you understand the main goal of any custody order is to protect the needs and interests of the kids, you still have the right to fight for the protection of your parental rights. If you have concerns about your rights or your access to your kids, you do not have to navigate these matters on your own.

It may be smart to work with an experienced lawyer who can help you understand your options and help you craft a plan that will work both now and well into the future.