Litigating child custody can be overwhelming. At the end of the day, important decisions regarding your child’s upbringing will be determined by the judge who has absolutely no clue about your family dynamics. With this in mind, it is not uncommon for divorcing couples to wonder whether they can settle child custody out of court.
A simple answer is, YES– you can settle child custody out of court. In fact, Arizona child custody laws encourage parents to work out custody and visitation plans on their own without involving the court.
If this is something you want to consider, then it is important that you understand how to go about this sensitive subject.
Important considerations when settling child custody out of court
Coming up with a solid parenting plan is essential whether or not you are going to settle your child custody in or out of court. Here are some of the factors you need to consider when negotiating an out-of-court child custody settlement:
The type of custody
This is probably the first step in reaching a custody settlement. Depending on the child’s needs, parents’ abilities and availability as well as each household’s living arrangements, you can opt for shared custody or full custody to one parent as the other gets visitation rights.
The child’s education and extra-curricular activities
Consistency in education is crucial for the child. Thus, compelling the child to change schools, and possibly the environment, in the middle of the year can not only be disruptive but an unnecessary hindrance as well.
The custody arrangement you come up with may address how both parents will be involved in the child’s education (studying, homework and school events) as well as extra-curricular activities. It could also address other concerns like the child’s holidays.
Divorce is a major life event for everyone involved. As soon as you decide to divorce, it is important that you begin working out a plan for your child’s custody and living arrangement going forward.