Checklist: Maximizing Parenting Time

A common question we get from a divorcing parent is: how can I get more parenting time with my child? Developing a parenting plan is a critical portion of the divorce process. The Complete Guide to Maximizing Your Parenting Time is a good resource as you think about creating a parenting time schedule.

Use the checklist below to ensure that you have all of the right paperwork in order before you begin discussing a formal parenting plan.

Talk to an Attorney & Get More Parenting Time 

A member of our Family Law Team can talk to you about a strategy to help you get more parenting time. Our divorce attorneys can help you customize a parenting plan that makes sense for you and your family. And when it comes time to fight for your rights, our attorneys will be ready to negotiate for you at the mediation table or in court. Schedule a initial case assessment when you call 303-688-0944 or click here.

• Parents’ wishes: Realistically assess your life and schedule. How much overlap is there between your obligations and your child’s schedule?
• Children’s wishes: If you’re the parent of a teenager, have a frank conversation with them about their preferences and, when possible, respect their wishes.
• Relationships between the child and the parents: List not only your relationship with your child but also their relationships with their siblings, other parent, and other close relatives.
• Children’s potential adjustment to a new home, school, and/or neighborhood: Can you or your spouse find a place close to your current home? If not, what can you do to minimize your child’s readjustment?
• Mental and physical health of the parents: Get your current health records and attach them to this checklist.
• Ability of both parties to share love and affection with the children: List recent examples where you and your ex have each worked to show your love to your children.
• Past patterns of involvement: List examples of how you are currently involved in your child’s life. If you would like to increase parenting time, list ways in which you plan to be more involved.
• Physical proximity of the parents: Do you have any plans in the future to move farther away than is reasonable for equal parenting time? If so, what amount of parenting time would you expect? Would you request custody?
• Capacity to place the children’s needs above their own: Give some examples of sacrifices you have made to make your child’s life better.

Schedule a case assessment

Talk to one of our divorce attorneys about how you can create a parenting plan that will support the relationship you have with your child after your divorce. Set up that meeting when you click here or call 303-688-0944.