Divorce Parenting Schedule

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A divorce implies that marital relationship has been terminated, but not the parental one. The latter has to be reorganized to include the new responsibilities and role of parenting separately. A 'parenting plan' means a legal and written document that defines how the parents should share the financial obligations, care taking responsibilities and time of the child. Such a schedule should be very useful as well as flexible. The prime intent of this schedule is to attain the best interests of the child.

A parenting schedule may have to face unexpected circumstances. Some of these are relocation of a parent, remarriage and disability. When one of the parents dies, this gives rise to several questions about the responsibilities and rights of this parent's family. There might be modifications in the custody and support terms of the surviving parent.

Highlights of Divorce Parenting Schedule

• It is advisable the both the parents conduct a yearly review of the schedule, preferably together. During this discussion, they must locate, which provisions should be continued with and which should be altered

• As the age of the child increases, so does the cost of caring. When the child is young, the parents should include a cost of living clause in the schedule. This clause should consist of a plan for costs in addition to the basic expenses like college tuition, glasses etc

• There are some occasions when a parent feels the need of a babysitter overnight. At this juncture, the other parent has two options
  • To have the child with him/her
  • The right of first refusal

  This is a good opportunity for the other parent to spend extra time with the child while simultaneously assisting the parent in need. Moreover, this extra time does not impact the custody or support schedule

• For feasibility in routine life, the parenting schedule must have some flexibility. This is essential to avoid returning to the court. For this, the parents can make private agreements that are acceptable to both of them

Pertinent Points regarding Divorce Parenting Schedule

• The decision regarding physical and legal custody impacts the child support agreement
• So, the decision pertaining to custody need to be made before discussing support
• If the child develops special talents or pursues certain interests, this might lead to additional expenses. If it is feasible, such costs should be made a part of the parenting schedule
• Regarding payments of health insurance, there are different options like those stated below
  • One parent could make the payments
  • The payments could be divided between the parents in a 50:50 ratio
  • The parent, who has better coverage, might make the payments
• The parenting plan should contain information regarding which parent should pay for the prescriptions and services that are not covered by insurance co-payments
• Let us assume that the relevant parent fails to fulfill the financial obligations of child support. Further, the child becomes aware of this fact. Consequently, the child might form an impression that the relevant parent does not have love and interest regarding him/her (i.e. the child)

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