What Is a Parenting Plan in New Jersey?

For many parents, child custody is one of the most difficult parts of divorce. As such, understanding what you can expect from this process is critical. One of the most important things to come out of this process is your parenting plan. If you’re not sure what you can expect from your parenting plan, the following blog explores what you must know about these matters and the importance of working with experienced New Jersey family law attorneys to help protect your best interests during this process.

What Is a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan is a document established by divorcing parents or, in the event they cannot reach an agreement, the court. Generally, this document contains information about how the parents will work together to raise the child despite the fact that they are no longer in a relationship.

However, the primary purpose of parenting plans is to ensure that the parents have an established custody schedule. It’s imperative to understand that child custody will be determined before the parenting plan is created. The courts will examine several factors to determine the best interests of the child. Generally, the courts will do their best to give both parents custody. However, there may be factors that impact how much parenting time each party receives.

What Is Typically Included in These Plans?

Generally, a parenting plan includes a considerable amount of information. As mentioned, parenting time is one of the most important aspects of this plan. You’ll find that this typically includes a schedule as to when each parent has custody of the child. This can be every other week, one parent during the week and the other on weekends, or even splitting the week in half if the parents live close enough. Regardless, the schedule is the primary component of a parenting plan.

In addition, the parenting plan will include information about holidays and other special occasions that can impact custody. Unfortunately, holidays can often be contentious as both parents feel entitled to spend these occasions with the child. As such, taking these matters into consideration when establishing the parenting plan is critical.

Finally, the plan can include important information for the parent to adhere to regarding communication and discipline. This can help ensure that both parents understand what information about the child must be shared with the other parent, like details from doctors’ visits, parent meetings, or updates on extracurriculars. Similarly, the plan can detail how this information should be communicated, like through email or text. Finally, the plan can include information related to how the parents will discipline their child, which can help create cohesion.

As you can see, there are many important factors that go into creating a parenting plan. As such, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced family law attorney with Haber Silver Russoniello & Dunn. Our team understands how complex these matters can be, which is why we are dedicated to helping you fight for the best interests of your family. Contact us today to learn more.