On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Family Law on Thursday, July 13, 2017.
Missouri parents who are going through a divorce may be able to come to a child custody resolution without having to resort to litigation and having a judge make the decision. This can result from engaging in informal negotiations with or without the assistance of their respective attorneys or by using alternative dispute resolution methods like mediation.
Regardless of which method is used to resolve custody disputes, all of the terms should be detailed in a written document and submitted to the court for its approval. It is frequently referred to as a parenting agreement.
Typical parenting agreements should specify which parent will have physical custody of a child and include visitation schedules. The individuals with legal custody or who has a say in major decisions concerning the child’s well-being or upbringing will be identified. Parenting agreements should also specify where the child will spend holidays, vacations and birthdays and include the scheduling for these periods.
Parents will be able to detail in what manner communication with grandparents, family friends and any other relevant party will occur. They will also include how both parties are to handle disagreements and how modifications to the agreement can be made. The information included in parenting agreements may differ for each case. Parents will be able to tailor their agreement to address the unique factors of their situation. Once it is approved by the judge, it becomes part of a formal order.
Family law attorneys can often assist their clients in negotiating such an agreement. If the parents are unable to come to an accord on every issue, it might be appropriate to have a neutral mediator help them to reach an agreement on the matters that are unresolved.
