Most parents who have gone through the court system either as a result of a divorce or custody modification have a court ordered parenting plan. For those who may not know, a court-ordered parenting plan is a plan that is either stipulated to by both parents or has been decided by a judge and determines when a child or children spend time with each parent.
Parenting plans are useful not only as a court document, but to determine when children see their parents in cases of disagreement. There is a problem with court ordered parenting plans however, they do not always take into consideration every occurrence. One such situation is a child’s graduation.
For instance, if a parenting plan is ordered by the court when a child is young and has not been modified along the way, it is extremely doubtful that the parties or the court contemplated child’s graduation from elementary school, middle school, and or high school.
A child’s graduation from school usually encompasses not only the graduation ceremony itself, but a party in which family and friends can celebrate. Parents who do not get along with each other can make graduation difficult for the children. Plans need to be made in advance and both parents may wish to throw a party for their child. Issues arise as to which parent will be hosting a party, when the party will occur, and who will be invited to the party.
These issues and situations most likely were not contemplated when the initial parenting plan was ordered by the court. What happens when there is no graduation parenting plan is a question I am often asked as a San Diego child custody lawyer. It would seem that graduation and parenting plans should be considered in formulating initial parenting plans.
I advise my clients to focus on the needs of their child when determining how best to deal with graduation ceremonies and parties. It is extremely helpful if both parents can work together to make plans so as not to burden their child with these adult decisions. If the parties have a tumultuous relationship and cannot work together to co-parent their child, then it is useful to bring the matter before the court well in advance of their child’s graduation so decisions can be made and their child does not need to be a part of the decision-making process.
Although graduation is a time for happiness and great achievement by a child, parents who cannot co-parent often make it difficult for their children to enjoy this time. Contemplating parenting plans in advance of a child’s graduation is a good way to avoid any unnecessary co-parenting issues that may affect a child. Learn about graduation and parenting plans.
To inquire further about parenting plans involving high conflict parents look for a local family law attorney who can discuss this process as it relates to your specific situation. In San Diego, contact the Law Offices of Brian A. Victor for more information on child custody plans. www.brianvictorlaw.com
