For mediation clients who have children, the Parenting Plan is the first of the four major areas covered during divorce mediation. Parenting Plans are discussed and decided in conjunction with the subject areas of (1) Equitable Distribution, (2) Spousal Support / Alimony and (3) Child Support. Information determined during the parenting plan phase, specifically in the area of residency and child custody, is also used in conjunction with the New Jersey Child Support Guidelines to determine an appropriate child support amount. It is with that in mind that these important decisions are made early on in the mediation process.

Parenting plans / Child Custody can vary from highly flexible to highly detailed and any points in-between depending on the couple's particular situation. In situations where the couple has an open line of communication, the parenting plan is more of a general outline that will be used to manage the growth and development of the child as well as the basic rules surrounding the parenting arrangements agreed upon in mediation. For higher conflict couples, the parenting plan will be much more detailed and can attempt to outline every detail regarding parenting but couples must keep in mind that even the best parenting plan is no substitute for good parenting. Your child's well-being and success in future years relies heavily on your ability to communicate as adults and put the needs of your child first.