A parenting plan establishes the responsibilities of both parents after their divorce is finalized. It allows parents peace of mind, knowing that they will still be an important part of their child’s life. While Georgia law requires all divorcing parents to complete a parenting plan, they’re especially helpful in an uncontested divorce.

How Uncontested Divorces Make Parenting Plans Easier 

What’s an Uncontested Divorce?

An uncontested divorce is a divorce without a trial. The spouses agree to terms of separation with the help of divorce or family lawyers. Together, the former spouses agree to a fair alimony rate and how their property and debts will be divided. Uncontested divorces are recommended for couples willing to cooperate. By avoiding a trial, both parties save on legal fees and finalize their divorce sooner. For spouses with children, child custody rules are established in uncontested divorces. The parenting plan is a detailed explanation of how the custody agreement is implemented. Parenting plans require teamwork and compromise. Spouses already capable of working together can develop the best parenting plan that benefits everyone.

What Does a Parenting Plan Include?

Parenting plans differ with every family. However, Georgia parenting plans must contain several specific details. Both parents must agree that they’ll work together in their child’s best interests. The plan must establish which parent will have primary physical custody of the child. That parent will make the day to day decisions, including in emergencies. However, both parents will have access to all the important information about the child, including their medical and educational situations. Make a note of any limitations a parent has in contacting their child when they’re not in their custody.

Establish who gets custody of the child during holidays and special occasions and how long the child will be in that parent’s custody. When custody changes, detail where parents will exchange the child and how they’ll be transported. If any parenting time needs supervision, explain what that supervision involves.  

Parents make decisions on their child’s religious upbringing, health, discipline methods, and education. A parenting plan must include if those decisions will be made together or if one parent has authority over the other. In instances where the parents disagree, the plan must include how they will be resolved.

The plan should also understand that the child’s needs and schedules will change as they age and begin to make their own decisions. Allow the parenting plan to accommodate changing schedules, so one parent doesn’t lose time with their child as they get older.   
 

If you’re considering an uncontested divorce, reach out to Hildebrand Law Office PC in northwestern Georgia. Lead attorney Jennifer E. Hildebrand will help you develop a plan that respects your parental rights and puts your child first. For more information on her team’s practice areas, including adoption and child custody, visit her website. To schedule a consultation, call (706) 638-6009.