Children are often caught in the middle of divorce proceedings, causing more significant amounts of stress to the divorcing parties. When parents get divorced, parents are often concerned that the divorce will disrupt their children's lives. To alleviate the burden of the impending divorce, parents must create a parenting plan. Within a parenting plan, topics like the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time guidelines are set so that once the divorce is finalized, the children's lives will be as stable as possible.
Parenting plans are essential in ensuring that each parent will play a role in their children's lives. However, what happens when one parent is supposed to watch the children but, for whatever reason, is unable? Parenting plans may prepare for this scenario through a “right of first refusal.” If you are getting divorced and have children, consult with an experienced divorce attorney who is well-versed in the creation of parenting plans so you can have the peace of mind that once your divorce is official, your children's life will go on with the guidance and support of both parents.
Defining the "Right of First Refusal"
Through the right of first refusal, if a parent cannot watch the children, they must contact the other parent before contacting a babysitter, friend, or relative to watch them. At the core of the right of first refusal is the belief that the most beneficial environment for children to grow up in is with their parents.
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