What Issues Will Divorcing Parents Address in a Parenting Plan?

 Posted on June 26,2024 in Kane

When parents choose to get a divorce, they need to address a number of legal issues related to their children. As they make decisions and resolve disputes related to the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time, they will create a parenting plan that will dictate how these matters will be handled going forward

Understanding the role that a parenting plan plays in a divorce, the terms that need to be included, and the ways child-related disputes may be resolved ensures that parents are prepared to make decisions that protect their children’s best interests. An experienced attorney can provide invaluable guidance during this process, working to negotiate agreements while protecting a parent’s rights.

Understanding Parenting Plans

A parenting plan is a written agreement that specifies how divorced or separated parents will share parental responsibilities and how parenting time with children will be divided. A well-crafted agreement can serve as a roadmap for co-parenting, and it can help minimize conflicts by clearly defining each parent's roles and obligations. In Illinois, a parenting plan is a critical component of the divorce process when children are involved, and it must be filed with the court for approval.

Key Terms to Include in a Parenting Plan

When creating a parenting plan, divorcing parents in Illinois must address several critical issues. These include:

• Allocation of parental responsibilities (child custody): Parents should be sure to understand how decision-making authority for their children will be shared or divided. A parenting plan will specify which parent will make decisions regarding the child's education, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and religious upbringing. Parents may have joint responsibility in all areas, or some decision-making responsibilities may be allocated to one parent and some to another.
• Parenting time (visitation schedule): A parenting plan should detail the regular weekly schedule indicating when children will be with each parent, including weekdays, weekends, and overnights. The plan may outline how day-to-day responsibilities will be managed, including routines, discipline, and general childcare. It should also define how holidays, school breaks, and vacations will be divided, ensuring that both parents have quality time with children during special occasions. 
• Transportation and exchange logistics: Parents should be sure to include who will be responsible for transporting children between their homes and where exchanges will take place. It may also be necessary to address whether or how transportation expenses will be shared or allocated between the parents.
• Communication protocols: The parenting plan may specify how and when each parent can communicate with the children when they are not in their physical custody. It can also establish guidelines for how parents will communicate with each other regarding the children’s needs, schedules, and any changes to the plan.
• Dispute resolution: Should conflicts arise between parents in the future, their parenting plan can include methods for resolving these disputes, such as mediation.
• Relocation: A parenting plan may outline the process for handling situations where one parent may wish to relocate with the children, including notice requirements and how the move will affect the parenting plan.
• Modification of the plan: Parents should be sure to understand when and how the parenting plan may be reviewed and modified as their circumstances or their children's needs change over time.

Contact Our St. Charles, IL Parenting Plan Lawyers

Creating a detailed, effective parenting plan is a crucial part of a divorce for parents. A well-crafted agreement can protect the well-being of children, help prevent disputes, and allow for positive co-parenting. At Mirabella, Kincaid, Frederick & Mirabella, LLC., our Kane County child custody attorneys help develop parenting plans that meet a family's unique needs. We advocate for our clients’ rights and advise them on the best ways to make sure their children’s interests are protected. Contact our firm to schedule an initial attorney meeting and get the legal representation you need during your divorce at 630-665-7300.