2.5 Reasons Parenting Plans Are Important
There are a number of legal reasons Parenting Plans are important as well as required when there are minor children. There are also some strong practical reasons.
Parenting Plans provide both parents:
1. a structure for decision-making,
2. a method for future changes, and
2.5 a clear understanding of their agreement.
1. A Reliable Structure
Even in the best circumstances, there will be times, especially years down the road, when you simply don’t remember things you agreed upon. Furthermore, there will be times you informally changed your agreement because it seemed more practical to do so at that time. Then either you or your former spouse will want to make another change, and you find you are unable to come to an agreement. It is during those times of disagreement or forgetfulness you will benefit from a written document that tells you what you are supposed to do. Your agreement is your safety net when you’re not sure, or don’t agree, how to handle a new situation.
2. Life’s Changes
Aging is inevitable, and with aging comes changes in each person’s life. The plan that worked when the children were eight no longer fits into their teenage lifestyle and activities. When one parent remarries, their responsibilities increase and their time diminishes. Changes in jobs and careers impact available time for the children and impact location and time for exchanges.
These things will happen in your life as you get older, and a good Parenting Plan will provide a method and necessary flexibility to make changes to your agreement. Some Parenting Plans will even forecast specific changes and provide the exact way for you to handle them.
2.5 A Clear Understanding
Over time, it’s not unusual to forget what you agreed to. When those times arise, and you are in dispute how to handle something, you can pull out the Parenting Plan to be your guide in black and white. No guessing required.
Parenting Plans provide both parents:
1. a structure for decision-making,
2. a method for future changes, and
2.5 a clear understanding of their agreement.
1. A Reliable Structure
Even in the best circumstances, there will be times, especially years down the road, when you simply don’t remember things you agreed upon. Furthermore, there will be times you informally changed your agreement because it seemed more practical to do so at that time. Then either you or your former spouse will want to make another change, and you find you are unable to come to an agreement. It is during those times of disagreement or forgetfulness you will benefit from a written document that tells you what you are supposed to do. Your agreement is your safety net when you’re not sure, or don’t agree, how to handle a new situation.
2. Life’s Changes
Aging is inevitable, and with aging comes changes in each person’s life. The plan that worked when the children were eight no longer fits into their teenage lifestyle and activities. When one parent remarries, their responsibilities increase and their time diminishes. Changes in jobs and careers impact available time for the children and impact location and time for exchanges.
These things will happen in your life as you get older, and a good Parenting Plan will provide a method and necessary flexibility to make changes to your agreement. Some Parenting Plans will even forecast specific changes and provide the exact way for you to handle them.
2.5 A Clear Understanding
Over time, it’s not unusual to forget what you agreed to. When those times arise, and you are in dispute how to handle something, you can pull out the Parenting Plan to be your guide in black and white. No guessing required.