Medford Parenting Time Lawyers
When parents separate the psychological impact on their children can be significant. It is difficult to decide how to divide time and responsibilities when raising children in separate households. It is imperative that a parenting plan is developed that adequately preserves the parent-child relationship but curbs upheaval between the parents. In high conflict situations there is a greater risk that the separation of parents will negatively impact a child's healthy development. It is critical that parents put the needs of their children first when creating a parenting plan and litigating disputed visitation arrangements.
Developing a Parenting Plan in Massachusetts
Judges in Massachusetts have great discretion when creating parenting plans. The guiding principle provided under Massachusetts law is that visitation and parenting arrangements must be in the best interest of the child. There are many developmental, psychological, and logistical considerations that must be made when formulating a parenting plan. It is well established that children do better if both parents have consistent and meaningful involvement in their lives. Cooperation and communication between parents is vital to maintain a child's routine and activities. Consideration should be given to maximize a child's time with their parents instead of third-party caregivers. The age of a child and his/her stage of development and maturity is an important factor to consider when creating a parenting plan. Logistical decisions regarding transporting the child(ren) to and from visits along with scheduling of doctor and dentist appointments, parent teacher meetings, religious education, and recreational activities should be contemplated when developing a co-parenting agreement. A proper parenting plan will fairly divide parenting time over holidays, birthdays, and vacations. There is a lot to think about when creating a parenting plan and skilled Medford domestic relations attorney who has experience creating thoughtful parenting plans is essential.
High Conflict Visitation Attorney – Medford Contested Parenting Plan Lawyer
All cases are unique and often there may be intervening circumstances that require special consideration. Cases involving substance abuse, sexual abuse, domestic violence, physical illness, neglect, and mental illness may impact a parent's ability to serve his/her child's best interest. In these situations, it is not uncommon for the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families (DCF) to be involved or for the court to appoint a Guardian ad Litem to investigate and make recommendations. Special consideration may be needed if the child is disabled or has special needs. Many times, the most difficult cases involve high conflict parents who cannot put their children's needs ahead of their animosity and hostility toward the other parent. Parents who parent out of spite and malevolence toward the other parent are prone to years of court involvement.
Lambert Legal has years of experience working with clients in high conflict parenting situations. Attorney Lambert has handled hundreds of DCF involved cases and he has represented parents and children that suffer from alcohol and drug dependence, mental illness, physical illness, and domestic abuse. When special co-parenting situations arise a thoughtful and comprehensive parenting plan that is attentive to the needs of the children and parents is required. The Medford parenting plan lawyers at Lambert Legal have the expertise to fight for you and your children in the most challenging parenting cases.