Divorce is a big step in your life, especially if you have a child with the other person. While your life is sure to change in many ways, it’s your responsibility to do whatever it takes to keep your child feeling good about the future.

This often starts with the creation of a parenting agreement. Once this is in place, you and the other parent will have a clear idea of what you should and shouldn’t be doing in regard to raising your child.

Creating a parenting agreement through mediation gives you more control over the process.

What does it include?

Although no two parenting agreements are the same, there are some things that you will want to consider. The most important details typically include:

• Which parent has physical custody (this is where the child will live)
• If one or both parents will have legal custody
• A visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent
• Details regarding how the child will spend his or her vacations, holidays, birthdays and other special life events
• How to deal with relationships with other family members

In addition to the above, you may want to include language on the steps to take should you face a dispute. You hope this never happens, but you can expect that your parenting agreement may fail you at some point. This is why having a dispute resolution system in place is so important.

After you work out the finer details of your parenting agreement, it will be sent to the court for final approval. As long as it checks out, you never have to appear in court.

Even if you understand the importance of following the agreement, it doesn’t mean your ex-spouse will take the same approach.

If the other parent isn’t complying with the agreement, you may need to take action. Learn more about your legal rights and the steps you can take to ensure that this individual stays on track in the future.