Can Your Parenting Plan Be Too Detailed?

Parenting plans are essential in divorces that involve children. These contracts can address a variety of different issues and range in the level of detail. The most important aspect of a parenting plan is that it works for the family it was designed for. Every family is different.

What is a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan outlining how separated parents will raise their children is most often required by family law courts in divorce and custody cases. In this contract, a couple can negotiate the best arrangement for their family. Crafting an agreement can allow both parents to set expectations of how they will each take care of their children after the divorce. It can also help alleviate any conflict that comes with separation and provide the children with a predictable schedule that could make them feel more stable throughout this stressful process.

How Detailed Should a Plan Be?

A well-executed parenting plan should be specific as to days and times so that the parents and the children know what to expect in their schedule. The parenting plan should be crafted to support a stable environment for the children.

The more specific the plan the less chance for confusion. While the parties are free to deviate from the plan by mutual consent, the parenting plan governs in the event of a dispute.

It is important to remember that as children grow and circumstances change the parties should work together to be flexible to accommodate the children.

What Should a Parenting Plan Include?

A parenting plan should include the following for each child:

• Child Custody
• Regular Parenting Time Schedule
• Vacations and Holidays Schedule
• Medical Care
• Education Plans and Educational Expense Responsibilities
• Parental Responsibilities
• Plans for Emergencies

A parenting plan can include many other stipulations, but these are some of the more important items to have in a plan. It could also include additional agreements, such as no arguing in front of the children, or how often the parent not with the child can check in with the other parent.

While it may seem like a good idea to have a very comprehensive plan, too many details can have unintended consequences. If the plan says that the parents have to live within 10 miles of each other, the contract would not allow one parent to move if they need to relocate to a job 15 miles away. That would be an instance of how a plan can be too detailed and inflexible.

It is good to have a detailed plan, but there has to be room for flexibility. A parenting plan can be too detailed, and it is important to craft a plan that works for your family. If you have questions about parenting plans, our divorce lawyers can help. Our team of experienced and compassionate attorneys at Moskowitz Law Group could discuss your situation and help you create a parenting plan that meets your needs. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.