What is a Parenting Plan?
A Parenting Plan is a written agreement that sets out how parents intend to manage the care of their children following a separation or divorce. They allow parents to formally record how they will co-parent and make arrangements for their children.
They are often considered a helpful tool for parents who have agreed to work together for the benefit of their children.
Parenting Plans are therefore entered into on a voluntary basis and are not legally binding. However, if it was felt necessary, it is possible to ask the court to turn a Parenting Plan into a court order, if the court is content that the making of such an order was in the child’s best interests.
What can a Parenting Plan cover?
One of the key benefits of a Parenting Plan is that they are bespoke documents which are tailored to the specific needs of the individual family. They can be a useful way for parents to agree and document child arrangements, either as a framework for future co-parenting or as a record of an agreement they have already reached.
There is no “one size fits all” approach as to what a Parenting Plan should cover, but they can commonly address the following areas:
- Living arrangements – Parents may wish to record how much time a child spends with each parent during term time and school holidays.
- Communication – Parents can reach an agreement in relation to indirect contact, such as how often a child has telephone or FaceTime contact with each parent.
- Screen time – Parents can agree to limit the amount of time that children spend using screens, including televisions, tablets, phones, and other devices.
- Social media – It is not uncommon for parents to agree guidelines on the use of social media, including setting a minimum age requirement.
- Special occasions – Parents can agree arrangements for important dates such as Christmas, birthdays, Mother’s Day, and Father’s Day.
- Specific issues – Parents can reach agreement over important issues such as vaccinations and religious upbringing.
How can Parenting Plans support families?
Parenting Plans can offer significant support to families by clearly setting expectations around how children will divide their time and how parents will share responsibilities.
By establishing predictable routines and clear arrangements, Parenting Plans can help children feel secure and supported. This sense of stability is particularly important as children adjust to changes in their family environment following separation.
In summary
At Payne Hicks Beach, we have extensive experience advising parents on all legal matters relating to families and children. We understand that every family is unique and that these situations often require a sensitive and considered approach. We are able to advise and assist with the drafting of Parenting Plans and guide you on the factors that such an agreement might cover.
For more information, please contact Isabella Beck or a member of our Family Department.
