Maryland Parenting Plans: What You Need to Know
During a divorce, it can be difficult for parents to come to an agreement about how they’ll raise their children. Who will be responsible for making decisions related to daily routines, education and medical care? How will both parents communicate with each other and share information? These factors should all be considered in advance so both parties understand how they’ll move forward. In the state of Maryland, parenting plans are highly useful in this regard. The document is also required by the court system for any case that involves the custody of minor children.
What is A Parenting Plan?
Maryland parenting plans outline how parents will raise their children separately after a divorce or separation. It specifies how certain decisions will be made and how much time a child will spend with each parent. Additionally, the document includes:
- What address will be used to determine a child’s school district
- What type of schooling the child will receive
- Information about the management of a child’s extracurricular activities
- How holidays will be handled, including spring and summer break
- Details about the transportation and exchange of children
- Information about childcare providers that will be used
- How disputes and other issues will be resolved
Why Maryland Parenting Plans are Important
The purpose of this document is to ensure that both parents are on the same page and are well-equipped to resolve any problems that arise. When it comes to childcare, both parties should have the opportunity to coparent and collaborate. Parents can work together to create a plan that best serves their family’s needs. Ultimately, an effective parenting plan is crucial to providing children with a stable, healthy environment after a divorce.
A Maryland parenting plan also acts as a set of guidelines should you ever need to resolve a conflict in court. It’s always a good idea to put agreements in writing so you can refer to them if necessary.
How to Create a Parenting Plan
The Maryland court system offers detailed instructions for crafting a parenting plan. It explains everything you need to know about writing a successful plan, including what to do if you and your spouse aren’t on the same page. This is the actual document you’ll receive during your first court appearance. The form must be filled out, signed and presented to the court to establish a Maryland parenting plan.
The plan can be modified in the future on an informal or formal basis. If both parties agree on the changes, they can choose to make them official by filing a new form with the court. If an agreement can’t be reached, parents may have to go to court to present their case. One parent must prove that a material change in circumstances has occurred (and it is in the best interest of the child or children) for the change to be approved.
Whether you’re developing a parenting plan for the first time or you want to modify an existing plan, you may need legal assistance. Our attorneys at Lebovitz Law, LLC are always here to answer your questions. Reach out to us to learn more about Maryland parenting plans, child support cases and more.
Do You Need Help Creating a Maryland Parenting Plan? Partner with The Attorneys at Lebovitz Law, LLC
At Lebovitz Law, LLC, we understand how difficult it can be to navigate child custody cases and divorce proceedings. If you’re seeking any advice related to Maryland parenting plans, you’ll need assistance from a legal expert. No matter what situation you’re facing, the experienced attorneys at Lebovitz Law, LLC can help. We’ll do everything our power to secure an advantageous outcome on your behalf. To schedule a consultation or speak to an attorney, contact us at (410) 657-6494.
