Going through a divorce can be a challenging experience, especially when child custody issues add to the complication. The process may not be smooth sailing, but you can ensure the best outcome by understanding how to navigate child custody during a divorce. At the Allen Law Firm in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we have seen many families overwhelmed by the situation, and our long-standing experience has shown us what works.
Understanding the Types of Child Custody
It’s crucial to understand the different types of child custody to make informed decisions:
Legal Custody
This form of custody allows a parent to make decisions about the child’s welfare, education, health care, and religious upbringing.
Physical Custody
This type of custody is where the child lives with one parent, often referred to as the “custodial parent”. The non-custodial parent may have visitation rights.
Joint Custody
This is when both parents share physical and/or legal custody of the child.
Sole Custody
This is when only one parent has both legal and physical custody.
Developing a Parenting Plan
A well-thought-out parenting plan is crucial in navigating child custody during a divorce. Consider these key areas:
- Establish a regular schedule for when the child will be with each parent.
- Outline procedures for special events, holidays, and vacations.
- Cover transportation arrangements and pickups/drop-offs.
- Detail how decisions about the child’s life will be made.
Co-Parenting Tips
Effective co-parenting after a divorce involves:
- Consistent communication with your ex-spouse.
- Maintaining a stable environment for your child.
- Keeping any disagreements away from the child.
- Accepting cases when exceptions need to be made to the set schedule.
Remember, every child custody case is unique. The Allen Law Firm is always ready to guide you through the process, ensuring the wellbeing of your child is preserved.