Implementing an effective parenting plan after divorce

HomeInsightsImplementing an effective parenting plan after divorce

New Jersey divorced or separated parents may find some information regarding parenting useful. Whenever a divorce is filed, the result can directly affect a relationship with a child. Visitation times are crucial to the child’s well-being but may be difficult to adjust to at first.

Statistics have proven that how well the children adjust to their parent’s divorce is directly influenced by how well the parents get along with each other afterwards. Parents that are determined to shield their children from conflict can help the adjustment period transition smoothly.

Children need consistency and clarity when it comes to scheduled visits. Establishing a parenting plan is useful for educational concerns, as well as religious upbringing and other important aspects of decision making. In a situation where parents are unable to cooperate with each other, a motion can be filed in a court to involve a mediator’s help in establishing the plan. The mediator can be a court-appointed one, a private one or an attorney. After the plan has been arranged, parents should submit it to the court as a filed order. The plan should be followed as closely as possible and should take school activities, summer breaks, birthdays and holidays into consideration.

This process can be challenging at first because the child’s age can be an important factor in the equation. Establishing a schedule and order can become complicated without outside support. Parents who are involved in the divorce or separation process might hire a family law attorney to assist in working out any decision-making responsibilities. This could potentially help to create an easier transition that could benefit a spouse and any children who are involved.

Source: New Jersey Judiciary, “Parenting Time: A Child’s Right”, accessed on Jan. 13, 2015