Shared Parenting in Montgomery County

Ideally, the allotment of parenting time should involve cooperation on the part of both parents. Parents should work together as much as possible in order to set parenting time schedules that minimize disruption for both children and parents. Parenting plans should take into consideration the work schedules of both parents, vacation schedules, school schedules, and the proximity of parents to each other. If parents are unable to reach an agreement, a judge is likely to impose a parenting time schedule that he or she believes is in the best interest of a child. As such, it’s in the best interests of parents to work with each other in order to create a parenting schedule that reflects their unique interests and situation.

At the family law office of Gump Law, we assist and represent parents in the development of parenting plans through divorce. We help parents prioritize and coordinate schedules to ensure the best interests of their child is secured.

Creating a Parenting Plan – What to Consider

When creating a parenting plan, it’s important to consider the following to minimize conflicts and reduce the likelihood of miscommunication later once a parenting time schedule is set in place:

• Consult and compare both a regular calendar and your child’s school calendar
• Include specifications for how summer vacation and holidays will be divided
• Provide instructions for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and birthdays
• Clearly define pick-up and drop-off responsibilities for doctor’s appointments, school, sports, swimming lessons, etc.
• Take steps to ensure both parents have legal access to medical records and the right to make emergency medical decisions
• Define when holidays begin and end
• Make sure your plan allows for a certain amount of flexibility should unforeseen events occur