People can be pleasant in Pennsylvania. Divorcing parents who get along well may be tempted to make decisions about child custody informally and agree on them with nothing but a handshake. Unfortunately, the waters of child custody are not always smooth. Custody usually involves couples working together over the course of years and, on a voyage of that length, you’re bound to encounter some rough seas.
For this reason, a formal child custody agreement can help to ensure that the parents know what to expect, while at the same time preserving the best interests of the child or children involved. In the event of a dispute or misunderstanding, parents can review the custody arrangement in order to clarify their rights, duties, and responsibilities – instead of relying on memory and falling into a “but you said this” type of disagreement.
A formal child custody agreement does not have to be set in stone. It is a flexible arrangement that you can amend or alter if circumstances change – especially when both parents agree. Modification of support, custodial parent, or visitation can be done with a simple order from the court. Child custody modification is not a complex matter, but a lawyer can help to make sure that all the formalities have been addressed.
You want the best for your children. However, after a divorce, even the best relationships can experience occasional strain, which may result in child custody disputes. The help of an experienced family law attorney can help make sure that your plans for your children are not derailed by a rough patch in your post-marital relationship. Visit the child custody page on our firm website to learn more about how we can help.