There are numerous factors that go into developing a parenting plan that a judge will accept. These agreements should address the right to spend time with children or make important decisions related to their upbringing.
Ultimately, these arrangements are made based on the child’s best interests. Different types of parenting agreements in Toronto could result in an equal share of rights between parties. They could also lead to one individual having the final say. Let a dedicated lawyer from the Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm help with these essential proceedings.
When parents divorce, a judge determines their rights regarding their shared children. The court must act in the best interest of the child. When making this decision, a judge must consider a wide range of factors including:
Both Toronto parents will offer their parenting plan unless one is agreed upon. These documents award two major rights.
As the name suggests, decision-making authority is the right to determine how your child is raised. This includes choices involving a child’s healthcare, religious upbringing, or education. It also includes the power to determine where a child lives.
Parenting time is the right to have contact with your child even when you are not granted decision-making authority. This replaces the concept of visitation, as the purpose of parenting time is to ensure that both parties are given the amount of fair access in the child’s best interests.
A parenting plan involves more than simply deciding which parent is awarded decision-making authority over parenting time. These agreements must also determine exactly how the parties share these rights. One of the most important decisions is whether to award shared or sole responsibility.
Shared responsibility means that both parties have some rights, even if they are unequal. Sharing decision-making authority requires the parents to make these choices together, for example.
Splitting time with the child can also take different forms. While one parent usually has primary custody, it is common for the other party to have the children on certain nights, weekends, or holidays. It is worth noting that some types of Toronto parenting agreements might make a joint award for some rights while giving sole responsibility to one party for others.
When it comes to parenting time and agreements in Toronto, plans can also be either open or fixed. An open plan means that the court sets the time each parent gets with the child. From there, it is up to the parties to work out a schedule. This approach allows for flexibility, which can be positive among co-parents with a good relationship.
In some cases, fixed plans are better. The court creates the schedule weeks or months in advance with this approach. Every day of the year is addressed, which can limit conflict for some co-parents.
If you have questions about the types of parenting agreements in Toronto, now is the right moment to ask. Our experienced lawyers at The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm are ready to provide you with guidance and support throughout this process.
Call right away to learn more and to schedule a consultation. Our lawyers are available 24/7 to help.
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