Child Custody Agreement

A well drafted child custody agreement should provide stability for the children and flexibility for the parents. While the parents may want to spend as much time with the children as possible, or even equally share time with the children, the need for children to be stable should be of paramount concern.

In all visitation or custodial schedules, flexibility is a key ingredient. During the year “special events” will occur for both parents that they wish to attend with the children. Parents must agree that it will be allowable for the children to attend a “special event” regardless of the regularly scheduled visitation.

Your children will now be sharing two different households with two distinct parenting styles and household rules. It is ideal if the parents maintain, as much as possible, similar rules for the children.

In reality though, there will be glaring differences between the two households. This will take a considerable adjustment on the part of the children. Your childrens adjustment will be helped by both time, and by the attitudes and behavior of both parents.

Whatever your circumstances, if the children are your primary concern than it is possible to work out an amicable relationship with the other parent and execute a mutually amicable child custody agreement. Always keep in mind your childrens best interests. Be flexible and considerate of each other when discusing the terms of your agreement. Communicate concerning the children. Take time to be prepared for the weeks schedule and develop a routine for yourselves and you children.

It is always the responsibility of both parents to help develop a meaningful, loving and healthy relationship with each parent. Your children will benefit immensely when both parents maintain a working relationship as it concerns the children.

Written by Becky L. Caruso, Esq.

Becky L. Caruso and Lauren S. Cohen are attorneys practicing in Central New York. Together they have over 19 years experience in all matters of DIVORCE, CHILD CUSTODY, and CHILD SUPPORT

CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT