When couples with children divorce in Massachusetts, they must work on a parenting plan that they can present together in court. This legal document will carry their respective time-sharing schedules with their kids, as well as their shared parenting duties.
After the court reviews their proposed plan, the judge will determine whether it is fair for both parents and made for their children’s well-being. If the judge deems their agreement to be suitable, they will sign the parenting plan and include it to their final divorce decree.
What is a parenting plan?
In Massachusetts, the courts will favor shared custody arrangements for most divorce cases, unless the family’s situation involves domestic abuse or family abuse.
If you and your spouse’s situation is the former, you will have the opportunity to raise your children as co-parents. In most joint custody cases, one parent’s residence will become the primary home for the kids, while the other will have visitation rights.
Also known as a parenting plan, this legal document will highlight you and your spouse’s agreed time-sharing schedule. While each family’s circumstances are unique in their own way, all parenting plans in Massachusetts must include the following key details:
- Drop-off and pickup schedule
- School activities
- Social and religious events
- School breaks, holidays, birthdays
- Travel and/or relocation
- Healthcare
- Communication rules
- Financial agreements
- Dispute resolution
By working on your differences and facilitating a “predictable” day-to-day routine for your kids, you can both provide them with the emotional security they need to slowly adjust to their new living arrangements.
Can parents divert from the original schedules?
While there may be some events related to your work or household that may cause one of you to divert from the original plan, these changes are not ideal unless they are minor and amicably agreed upon.
This is because parenting plans are court orders, and diverting from the agreed terms of your plan may be seen as contempt of court.
By working towards a fair agreement, you and your spouse can co-parent effectively
When you and your spouse file for divorce but choose to stay civil for the sake of your kids, you can both become active parents in your children’s lives while showcasing to the court that your parenting plan proposal is indeed for their best interests.