A sample custody mediation agreement is an essential document that helps to define the terms and conditions of a custody agreement that has been reached through mediation. Mediation is a process of resolving disputes through peaceful negotiations between parties without going to court. It is a form of alternative dispute resolution that can help both parties reach a mutually agreeable solution.
A custody mediation agreement outlines the terms of custody, visitation, and communication arrangements between parents or guardians. Regardless of the child`s age, the agreement ensures that both parents have equal access to their child and share parenting responsibilities.
Here`s what a typical sample custody mediation agreement might contain:
1. Custody Arrangement:
The agreement will outline the custody arrangements between the parents, including legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the authority to make decisions regarding the child`s education, healthcare, and other related matters. Physical custody refers to where the child will reside and how much time will be spent with each parent.
2. Visitation Schedule:
The agreement will lay out a schedule for visitation, including when the child will be spending time with each parent. The schedule will also include any special arrangements for holidays, vacations, or other special events.
3. Communication:
The agreement will define how parents will communicate with each other and the child. It will outline how often the parents will communicate with each other, whether this will be in-person, via phone, or email. It will also specify the methods of communication the parents will use to communicate with their child.
4. Child Support:
The agreement will outline the child support arrangements if applicable. This will include how much each parent will contribute financially towards the child`s upbringing.
5. Dispute Resolution:
The agreement will include a dispute resolution clause that outlines the process for resolving any disputes that may arise between the parents or regarding custody arrangements.
In conclusion, a sample custody mediation agreement is a legal document that outlines the terms of custody arrangements reached through mediation. It provides a written record of the agreements that both parents have agreed upon, creating an actionable roadmap to ensure that both parents have equal access to their child. When drafting a custody mediation agreement, it is essential to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that the document meets all the legal requirements and can be enforced in a court of law.