A balanced custody plan is essential to ensure both the well-being of the child and the fairness towards both parents. Below are some considerations that can help you achieve a balanced custody arrangement:
Effective communication with your coparent
As parents, you should strive to communicate effectively and respectfully with one another to discuss and agree upon what is best for your child. This involves being open to suggestions and hearing about the other parent’s preferences. This can help in creating a custody plan that works for everyone involved.
Flexibility with potential changes
Your child’s needs change over time and this could result to future changes in the custody plan. As a parent, you should be willing to be flexible with the custody arrangement. This may mean adjusting schedules or making accommodations for special circumstances.
Focusing on your child’s best interests
Your child’s needs and best interests should always be the primary concern in any custody arrangement. This includes considering their emotional, educational, social and physical needs. Even with your child’s best interests as top priority, you can still work on a custody plan that protects your parental rights.
Considering your child’s preference
Depending on your child’s age and maturity, you may consider their preferences in the custody plan, just as a judge would in a court proceeding under certain circumstances. This allows them to feel included and heard in the process. It is essential, however, to ensure that the child is not feeling pressured to choose sides.
A plan that realizes your goals
It can be overwhelming to work out a custody plan that protects your parental rights, agreeable to the other parent and is in the best interests of your child. Nonetheless, it is workable with the help of an experienced child custody attorney who can guide you towards options that realize your parenting goals.
