Navigating child custody and visitation agreements are one of the most disputed issues in divorce or separation for most parents. The feelings involved are very strong and the actions taken have rather serious consequences for the parents and the children. Knowledge on the process and what to expect makes the process easier. Below are some of the best approaches that can be followed when it comes to child custody and visitation.
Understand the Types of Custody
First of all, it is crucial to classify the kinds of custody arrangements that one can encounter before starting negotiations. Custody can be classified into two main categories: legal custody and physical custody are two more important custody types that are identified. Legal custody is the right to make decisions regarding the child, for example, where the child should go to school, whether the child should take medication when he/ she is sick, or if the child should be home schooled or be taught religious doctrines. Physical custody relates to the living arrangement and who is responsible for the child’s care on a daily basis. There can be joint custody whereby the parents divide the time the child spends with them or one parent can be awarded physical custody (sole custody) while the other will be awarded visitation rights.
Prioritize the Child’s Best Interests
Special attention should be paid to the fact that during the negotiations of the custody and visiting rights, the child’s welfare should always be the priority. Some of the factors that may be taken into consideration include age of the child, child’s affection towards each parent, child’s need for stability, and the parents’ capacity to communicate and share care for the child. This way, it is possible to maintain the focus on the best interest of the child in the course of the negotiations and also show the court that both parents are willing to do what is in the best interest of the child.
Communicate Openly with Your Co-Parent
The process requires good cooperation with the co-parent and, therefore, it is essential to communicate well with the co-parent. Be as specific as possible when talking about what you expect as far as custody and visitation are concerned. Try to establish a working relationship in which both the parents are willing to listen and respect each other. If direct communication is a problem, seek to use a third party such as a counselor or mediator to help in the communication process. This paper has shown that, when there is cooperation, there is higher likelihood of arriving at a better deal for both the parties hence minimizing the conflict.
Document Everything
Documentation of all the verbal and written communication, negotiations, and dealings that pertain to custody and visitation arrangements should be made. This documentation can be useful in case of any disagreement or confusion as to the progress and status of the project. Make sure to keep records of any oral agreements, modifications in the visiting schedules and any circumstances that may impact on the custody rights. Being clean can be helpful in some cases since it clears the air and can be useful if the situation escalates to the legal level.
Be Flexible and Willing to Compromise
There is no hard and fast rule when it comes to custody and visitation schedules and this is why it is very important to be as flexible as possible. It would be unrealistic to expect no changes in life circumstances, and being ready to make some changes can only be beneficial for co-parents. If the other parent wants to change the visitation schedule, you should listen to the reasons and be ready to compromise. It is always better to compromise in order to build good relations and show that you are willing to coparent well.
Seek Legal Advice
It is recommended to seek an advice of a family law attorney during the process. An attorney can assist you in knowing your legal position, compliance with the law, and guarantee that any contracts are legal. They can also stand for you in court if need be and will help fight for your rights. It also helps to have professional help to at least reduce some of the stress that comes with custody negotiations.
Prepare for Court if Necessary
At times, the parents may not come to an agreement, and the matter has to go to court. However, if this happens, then one should be ready to defend his or her stand in a manner that is civil and polite. Collect all of the paperwork you will need: the suggested custody and visitation schedule, documents that support your case, and any messages with the other parent. A good knowledge of what to expect in a court and how the process formally works goes a long way in preparing the party in the case.
Conclusion
Child custody and visitation rights are always challenging and may involve a lot of conflict. Thus, when facing this difficult process, it is possible to navigate such aspects as the types of custody, the child’s best interests, communication, documentation, flexibility, involving attorneys, and preparing for a trial. Finally, it can be suggested that the child’s and the teacher’s cooperative intentions can work in the benefit of all the participants.