Divorce is hard on children, especially when it takes place in a public courtroom where the judge makes decisions that will affect every member of the family.
On the other hand, mediation puts parents rather than a judge in control of creating a workable parenting plan and deciding the most favorable approaches for the children’s future.
About the parenting plan
A parenting plan is a document that serves as the framework for how parents will care for their children post-divorce. It includes decisions as to where the children will live and how both parents will manage their upbringing in terms of sharing finances and other responsibilities.
What the plan covers
Your parenting plan will address the many decisions you face in raising your children once the divorce is final:
- Custody schedule
- Plans for the children’s transition between homes
- Division of holiday and vacation time
- Access to both school and medical records
- Communication between you and the other parent
- Communication between each of you and your children
- Day-to-day child-raising approaches to discipline, chores, allowance
- Parental decision-making rights and responsibilities
How the mediator assists
A trained mediator will help guide you and your soon-to-be-ex as you work toward creating a successful divorce settlement agreement. This includes matters like equitable property division, spousal support and the all-important parenting plan. If you organize your thoughts ahead of time and prepare for negotiations with the other parent, the mediation process will go more smoothly.
Why mediation wins out
As opposed to litigation, mediation is a less expensive option that also takes much less time than traditional divorce. Studies show it is less stressful than the litigation process for children. A Nevada judge does not determine the outcome; rather, the divorcing spouses take control and work toward a satisfactory agreement on major issues. This includes developing the parenting plan and establishing decision-making responsibilities intended to pave the way forward in the raising of their children.
