Getting a divorce or separating can be a difficult process. Traditionally, it is an expensive, physically and emotionally challenging experience that can force couples to fight over not just shared property, but the right to have a relationship with their children. Mediation encourages parents to find separation solutions peacefully and without needing to involve multiple lawyers, a judge, or a court. A mediator will work with both parent’s plans and desires to find a custody compromise that works for them. As long as all parties are open and willing to find a compromise, mediation can save money, time, and help parents avoid having to drag their children through a messy divorce process.
Child Custody Scheduling Options
In shared custody, there are many options for custody schedules. These options can be broken into 50/50, 60/40, 70/30, and 80/20 options. For instance, if couples are still living close in proximity and it would not create a challenge for your children to get to school, some couples alternate weeks, or do two weeks at a time. An example of a 70-30 schedule is where one parent gets weekends and the other gets weekdays. There are also other flexible schedules that involve utilizing summer and winter breaks, where the child spends part of their vacation from school with one parent and the rest of the year with the other. These plans are most utilized when separated couples live a long distance from each other. A mediator can help both you and your partner find a schedule that meets your needs and your child’s needs.
Custody Provision Plans
Another important facet of custody mediation is provision plans. Provisions are a set of rules and stipulations that help a custody plan run smoothly. They can include which parent pays for health care and insurance or what to do in the event of a move. They can also cover parental guidelines and ensuring that your children can experience time with both parents seamlessly. No matter what you want to make decisions based on the child’s best interest.
Be Prepared For Custody Mediation
The most important thing you can do for a custody mediation is to come prepared. Consider schedules and provisions that will work best for you, your partner, and your children. But also consider any problems that may come up and solutions that may help. If you are working with a mediator, they are going to try and find a solution that works best for all parties involved. Be ready to make compromises, but also be aware of what you want out of your custody plan. With help from the right mediator, finding a plan that works for both you and your child is possible.
Contact Deirdre Healy
For couples in the Worcester area that are looking for mediation services, contact Deirdre Healy. Deirdre Healy is a lawyer with experience working with couples to get win-win solutions.
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