Before you go to mediation, you will need to create your parenting plan proposal. You need to make a plan that is in the best interest of your child. Some things to consider are what will meet your child’s basic needs for: Love, protection, and guidance; A healthy diet; Good medical care; and Enough rest. It is also important to consider your child’s age, personality, experiences, and ability. Every child is different. Adjust your plan to your child, NOT your child to your plan. Give your child regular, consistent times with each of you for day-to-day care, overnights, activities, schoolwork, vacations, and holidays. Use a calendar to help you. Give your plan enough detail so it’s easy to understand and enforce. Give your child a sense of security and a reliable routine.
Things that need to also be addressed in your parenting plan proposal are physical custody and legal custody.
“Physical custody,” which means time with the children Think about activities, overnights, and day-to-day care: Where should my child be during the week? On weekends? Where should my child be for holidays, summer vacations, and special days? Which parent will be in charge of which activities (sports, music, homework)? Which parent is in charge at which times? How will my child get from one parent to the other? Who will pay the costs?
“Legal custody,” which means making decisions about the children.
Be clear and specific about which decisions each parent can make on their own and which decisions you will make together including: Schools? Daycare? Religion? Medical and dental care? Emergency care? Jobs and driving (for older children)?
As you can see, there are a lot of things you need to consider before your mediation appointment. It is best to consult with a knowledgeable family law attorney so you know if your requests are reasonable or if you should make changes to your proposal to be more in your favor. Wallin & Klarich has more than 30 years of experience in family law. Our attorneys know from long experience in custody cases, and are prepared to fight to get you the best possible outcome. With 16 attorneys in 33 offices throughout Southern California, we can be there when you need us — wherever you are. If you’re thinking of hiring an attorney for a custody matter, call us today at 1-888-749-7428 for a consultation.
