Onward Intel: What is a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan in divorce is a written agreement that outlines how separated or divorced parents will share responsibilities for raising their children. It’s typically required by the court in any case involving custody or allocation of parental responsibilities.

A parenting plan usually includes:

• Custody Arrangements: Who the child will live with and how parenting time is divided (sometimes called physical custody or parenting time).
• Decision-Making Responsibilities: How major decisions will be made (e.g., education, health care, religious upbringing, medical decisions).
• Schedules: Weekly schedules, holidays, school breaks, activities, and vacation time.
• Communication: How parents will communicate with each other and with the child.
• Transportation: Who will handle drop-offs and pick-ups.
• Dispute Resolution: How disagreements will be addressed (e.g., mediation).

In most states, courts prefer when parents can work together to create a parenting plan, as it tends to reflect the child’s best interests and avoids lengthy litigation. If parents can’t agree, the court may impose a plan.