When an Alaskan couple with young children goes through a divorce, one of the hardest tasks they may face is deciding on a custody plan. In most cases, both parents want as much time as possible with their kids, but it’s important to create a custody schedule that best benefits the children. This can depend on many factors like both parents’ work schedules, family dynamics, and in some cases, the preferences of the children.
Choosing the best custody arrangement
A custody order, which may also be called a parenting plan, should outline how the children will be cared for after a divorce. This includes scheduling throughout the year and any adjustments that may be made for holidays or special occasions. The custody plan should also list in detail how decisions will be made for the children’s education, healthcare, and extraneous expenses not covered by child support.
The child custody order should also include information on who will pay for health insurance for the children and who will be allowed to claim them as dependents on their tax return. Lastly, details about child support will dictate how each parent will financially support their children. A thorough child custody order can prevent future problems by allowing both parents to have the same expectations for how the children will be cared for.
Help is available
In some cases, parents may negotiate the terms of their child custody plan without court intervention. When the divorce is not amicable, the court will intervene to provide a child custody plan that is in the best interest of the children. Either way, Alaskan parents will benefit by seeking advice from an attorney so they better understand their rights and obligations.
