Figuring out a custody agreement that serves the best interests of your children is essential in a divorce settlement, and it is often the most contested and complicated issue in a divorce. There are many elements that go into these custody agreements, so it’s best to seek help from an experienced child custody lawyer. They will ensure you’ve addressed the most important issues, so your family can avoid any unnecessary stress and disputes. Here is a guide to the basics of a standard custody agreement.

What Are the Basic Elements of a Custody Agreement?

1. Physical & Legal Custody 

The foundation of every custody agreement is centered on who will have physical and legal custody of the children. Generally, this is the first thing you establish. Physical custody refers to the parent who takes care of the children and provides them a place to live, while legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make decisions about things like religion, medical care, and education. 

2. Visitation Schedule 

Once you’ve determined where the children will reside, you must arrange a visitation schedule. This outlines how they’ll spend their time with the non-custodial parent. A visitation schedule should include provisions for school days, weekends, holidays, and school vacations. 

3. Financial Responsibility 

Raising a child comes with major financial responsibility. It’s important to clarify how each parent is expected to help meet the children’s everyday needs, as well as contribute to significant expenses. A child custody lawyer can go over everything you should consider, including insurance, extracurricular activities, childcare, and education.

4. Dispute Resolution 

There is always the potential for disagreements to arise between parents, and a custody agreement should plan for this. Make sure your agreement discusses what methods will be used to resolve disputes and what modifications you’ll make to the agreement to accommodate life changes. The three standard options for dispute resolution are court action, mediation, and arbitration. A child custody lawyer can outline the plan that best fits your family’s needs.

If you’re unable to reach a custody agreement with your ex, it will be up to a judge to decide on the arrangement they feel is best for the children. Avoid this scenario by working with a child custody lawyer from Bray & Johnson in Canton, GA. They’ll help facilitate negotiations between both parties while ensuring your children’s best interests remain protected. Call the law firm at (770) 479-1426 to speak with an experienced attorney, or visit them online for more information on why they’ve been a top choice for legal services in North Georgia for more than 45 years.