When going through a divorce or separation, one of the most challenging aspects is determining child custody arrangements. It can be overwhelming, emotional, and confusing, which is why having a child custody agreement in place can ease the process.
A child custody agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms and conditions of the parents` custody arrangements. It typically includes factors such as the type of custody, visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and financial obligations.
To help you understand what a child custody agreement may look like, we’ve put together a child custody agreement sample:
CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT SAMPLE
Introduction:
This child custody agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on [Date] by and between [Name of Parent 1] (hereinafter referred to as “Parent 1”) and [Name of Parent 2] (hereinafter referred to as “Parent 2”) (collectively referred to as the “Parents”).
Child Information:
The children covered under this Agreement are [Child 1’s name], born on [Date of Birth] and [Child 2’s name], born on [Date of Birth]. (collectively referred to as the “Children”).
Custody Arrangement:
The Parties agree to have shared legal custody of the Children. The Parents will have equal rights to make decisions about the Children’s health, education, welfare, and other important matters. Parent 1 will have physical custody of the Children every other week, beginning on [Day of the week], at [pick-up time], and ending on [Day of the week], at [drop-off time]. Parent 2 will have physical custody of the Children every other week, beginning on [Day of the week], at [pick-up time], and ending on [Day of the week], at [drop-off time].
Holiday and Vacation Schedule:
The holiday and vacation schedule will be as follows:
– Winter Break: The Children will spend the first half of winter break with Parent 1 and the second half with Parent 2.
– Spring Break: The Children will spend spring break with Parent 2.
– Summer Break: Parent 1 will have custody of the Children for the first half of summer break, and Parent 2 will have custody for the second half.
– Thanksgiving: The Children will spend Thanksgiving with Parent 1 in even-numbered years and with Parent 2 in odd-numbered years.
– Christmas: The Children will spend Christmas with Parent 2 in even-numbered years and with Parent 1 in odd-numbered years.
– Other Holidays: The Parents will alternate having custody of the Children on other holidays such as Memorial Day, Labor Day, and the Fourth of July.
Decision-Making:
The Parents will share the decision-making responsibilities for the Children’s health, education, and welfare. If a dispute arises, the Parties agree to work together to come to a resolution in the best interest of the Children.
Child Support:
Parent 2 agrees to pay child support in the amount of [$ amount] per month, beginning on [Date]. Child support payments will continue until the Children turn 18 or graduate from high school, whichever comes last.
Conclusion:
This child custody agreement represents the entire agreement between the Parents and supersedes all prior negotiations or agreements. The Parties acknowledge that they have read and understood the contents of this Agreement and agree to be bound by its terms.
Having a child custody agreement in place can help minimize conflict and establish a framework for co-parenting. It’s essential to consult with a family law attorney to ensure that your agreement complies with your state’s laws and regulations. Remember, this sample agreement is just a reference point and not a substitute for legal advice.