If you intend to share parental responsibility for your kids with your ex-spouse, you may expect to have some struggles adjusting to your new arrangement. Negotiating a comprehensive parenting plan may help to set reasonable expectations. It may also be good for your kids.
When your parental time-sharing begins and ends, you must transfer physical custody of your children to your ex-spouse. Using your parenting plan to clearly define when, where and how time-sharing transfers occur may keep future conflict in check.
When do time-sharing transfers take place?
By definition, time-sharing transfers take place when parenting time begins and ends. Nevertheless, work, school, recreational activities and other commitments may dictate when your time-sharing transfers are most convenient for you, your ex-spouse and your kids.
Where do time-sharing transfers occur?
You and your ex-spouse probably have some flexibility to determine the location of your time-sharing transfers, as virtually anywhere works in theory. In practice, ideal time-sharing transfer sites have the following characteristics:
- Neutrality
- Accessibility
- Convenience
- Safety
Your primary time-sharing transfer spot may become impractical over time. Consequently, it may be wise to designate a primary location and a backup one or two.
How do time-sharing transfers happen?
Usually, the parent who has scheduled time with the kids prepares them for the time-sharing transfer. Preparing children for the transfer may include packing essential items, dressing the kids appropriately and feeding them a meal. Typically, each parent also has an obligation to notify the other of delays or other matters that may affect the time-sharing transfer.
Ultimately, while it may seem like a pain, the work you put into planning your time-sharing transfer may start your shared parenting arrangement on a path toward success.