Parenting Plans in Divorce in Calgary, Alberta: What to Include
Divorce often brings many difficult decisions, especially when children are involved. Creating a thoughtful parenting plan can help parents in Calgary navigate this transition while prioritizing their childrenâs needs and stability.
What Is a Parenting Plan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement between parents that outlines how they will share responsibilities and time with their children after separation or divorce. While the plan can be created outside of court, Albertaâs family courts often review it to ensure it supports the childâs best interests.
Key Elements to Include in Your Parenting Plan
When drafting a parenting plan in Calgary, itâs important to cover practical details clearly. Consider including:
- Living arrangements: Where the child will live primarily, and how time will be divided between parents.
- Decision-making: How parents will share decisions about education, health care, religion, and extracurricular activities.
- Communication: Ways parents and children will stay in contact when apart, such as phone calls or video chats.
- Transportation and exchanges: How and where children will be transferred between parents for visits.
- Holiday and special days schedule: Plans for birthdays, holidays, school breaks, and other important events.
- Child support and expenses: While financial matters are often handled separately, you may include agreements related to shared costs for the childâs needs.
- Health and safety considerations: Any medical needs, allergies, or safety concerns that affect parenting arrangements.
Special Considerations if Domestic Violence Is a Factor
In cases where domestic violence has occurred, safety becomes a central concern in parenting plans. Itâs important to include provisions that protect the well-being of both the child and the parent. This might involve supervised visits, specific exchange locations, or communication through third parties. Remember, local family courts in Alberta carefully consider safety when reviewing parenting arrangements.
When drafting or agreeing to a parenting plan under these circumstances, consider seeking support from professionals experienced in domestic violence to ensure your plan reflects safety and stability.
How to Write a Parenting Plan That Works
Here are some practical tips for creating a parenting plan in Calgary:
- Be as specific as possible to avoid misunderstandings later.
- Focus on your childâs needs and routine stability.
- Use clear, respectful language that all parties can agree on.
- Consider the childâs age, school schedule, and extracurricular activities.
- Build in flexibility for unexpected changes while keeping consistency.
- Review and update the plan as needed to reflect changes in circumstances.
What to Do Next
Once you have a draft parenting plan, you can:
- Discuss the plan with the other parent in a calm, clear manner.
- Seek advice from a family law professional in Calgary for guidance tailored to your situation.
- Consider mediation if you and the other parent have difficulty reaching agreement.
- Submit the plan to the family court if you are applying for a court order, keeping in mind that judges in Alberta will assess whether the plan serves the childâs best interests.
- Keep copies of all agreements and court documents in a safe place.
Common Questions About Parenting Plans in Calgary
- Can I change a parenting plan after itâs been agreed upon?
Yes, parenting plans can be modified if circumstances change, but changes should be made thoughtfully and, when possible, with mutual agreement or court approval. - Do I have to have a parenting plan to get a divorce in Alberta?
While not legally required, having a parenting plan can make the divorce process smoother and help avoid future conflicts. - What if the other parent does not follow the parenting plan?
If concerns arise, try to communicate calmly or seek professional help. Courts can be involved if arrangements are repeatedly disregarded. - Should children be involved in creating the parenting plan?
Depending on their age and maturity, childrenâs preferences may be considered, but decisions are ultimately made based on their best interests. - How does Alberta law view parenting plans?
Courts in Alberta focus on the childâs best interests and will review parenting plans to ensure they promote their safety, stability, and well-being.
If you want local help, you can privately browse lawyers, therapists, shelters, and hotlines near you at DV.Support.
Creating a parenting plan is an important step in navigating family changes with care and clarity. By focusing on your childâs needs and approaching this process thoughtfully, you can contribute to a more stable and supportive future for your family in Calgary.