When parents separate or divorce, parenting plans are used to outline how they will share time and responsibilities for their children. These plans typically cover schedules, decision-making authority, communication rules, and other important details. But even with a signed agreement in place, disagreements can still come up. Knowing how to respond when that happens is important for both the parents and the children involved.
Start By Reviewing The Existing Plan
The first step in resolving a parenting dispute is to revisit the current agreement. Many disagreements stem from different interpretations of the plan. Reviewing the language together or with legal support can often clear up confusion.
If a plan has clear terms but one parent is not following them, the other parent may want to begin by documenting the issue and attempting to talk it through. Courts generally prefer that parents make reasonable efforts to resolve the minor problems without formal legal action, as long as the child’s safety and well-being are not at risk. Working with a parental rights lawyer can also go a long way.
Communication Is Key During Disagreements
Many disputes come down to communication issues. Misunderstandings about pickup times, holidays, or decision-making can often be resolved through clear and calm discussion. If direct conversations are difficult, using a communication app designed for co-parenting can help track conversations and reduce conflict.
Written communication can also be useful in case the dispute escalates and a record of past messages is needed. When discussing disagreements, parents should stay focused on the child’s needs rather than personal frustrations.
Consider Mediation Before Going To Court
If parents are unable to resolve their disagreement through direct conversation, mediation is often the next step. Mediation allows both parties to meet with a neutral third party who helps guide the discussion and find common ground. Many parenting plans already require mediation before either parent can return to court for enforcement or modification.
Mediation can be especially helpful when the dispute involves recurring issues, like schedule changes, disagreements over school choices, or parenting styles. If mediation is successful, the outcome can often be written into an updated parenting agreement. A family lawyer can help you with mediation before pursuing other means like litigation.
Legal Action As A Last Resort
If the conflict cannot be resolved through communication or mediation, it may be necessary to return to court. This could involve filing a motion to enforce the current plan or requesting a modification if one parent believes the current arrangement is no longer working.
To prepare for court, it’s helpful to keep detailed records of any violations, conversations, or incidents related to the dispute. Judges want to see that each parent is acting in the child’s best interest and making an effort to follow the agreed plan. Attorneys like those at The Spagnola Law Firm can attest to how important it is to approach parenting disputes with both legal and practical awareness. Call an experienced attorney today if you’re struggling with issues like parenting disputes.