How Parenting Agreements Are Built Outside of Court in Arizona
During your divorce, figuring out what to do with you children can be one of the hardest parts. You know you have to create a parenting agreement, but may struggle to finalize one on your own. There are hard questions to answer, and compromises to be made. One way or the other, it’s an adjustment. But you can do it outside of court without the need for an ugly legal battle over custody. Arizona law actually encourages cooperation and creative solutions, and a legal paraprofessional can help.
At JNH Legal Services, PLLC, our legal paraprofessional can help you negotiate and craft your parenting agreement outside of court. This saves significant time, money, and stress compared to a litigated parenting agreement. Meet with him today to learn how he can help.
Why Many Arizona Parents Choose to Resolve Parenting Issues Outside of Court
Courtroom battles are expensive, time‑consuming, and emotionally draining. By contrast, out‑of‑court agreements offer:
- Greater flexibility
- Faster resolution
- Lower costs
- More privacy
- A child‑centered approach
- A stronger foundation for long‑term co‑parenting
Arizona courts also prefer when parents work together.
Key Components of an Out‑of‑Court Parenting Agreement
A parenting agreement (also called a parenting plan) must meet Arizona’s statutory requirements. It also has to address the major aspects of raising a child in two households. These agreements typically include:
1. Legal Decision‑Making Authority
Parents must decide whether they will share joint legal decision‑making or whether one parent will have sole authority. This covers major decisions related to:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Religious upbringing
- Major extracurricular activities
Arizona law favors joint decision‑making unless there is evidence that it would not be in the child’s best interests.
2. Parenting Time Schedule
Parents typically outline:
- Weekday and weekend routines
- Holiday and school break schedules
- Summer parenting time
- Transportation responsibilities
- Exchange locations and times
3. Communication Guidelines
Parenting agreements often include:
- Preferred communication methods (text, email, co‑parenting apps)
- Response expectations
- Rules for respectful communication
- How parents will share school or medical updates
These guidelines help prevent misunderstandings and reduce tension.
4. Procedures for Resolving Disagreements
A strong agreement includes a process for resolving disputes, such as:
- Direct discussion
- Mediation
- Consulting a parenting coordinator
- Referring to a specific decision‑making tie‑breaker
Having a plan in place helps parents avoid unnecessary court involvement.
5. Child‑Focused Provisions
Parents often include additional terms tailored to their child’s needs, such as:
- Bedtime routines
- Technology use
- Rules for introducing new partners
- Participation in activities
- Expectations for homework and school communication
These details help maintain consistency between households.
Common Ways Arizona Parents Build Parenting Agreements Outside of Court
Direct Negotiation Between Parents
Some parents are able to sit down together and work through the issues on their own. This approach works best when communication is respectful and both parents are committed to compromise.
Mediation
Mediation is one of the most popular and effective tools for resolving parenting issues. A neutral mediator helps parents:
- Identify priorities
- Explore options
- Reduce conflict
- Draft a mutually acceptable agreement
Mediation is confidential, cost‑effective, and designed to keep parents in control of the outcome.
Using Legal Paraprofessionals
Arizona’s Licensed Legal Paraprofessionals (LLPs) can assist with:
- Drafting parenting plans
- Explaining legal requirements
- Preparing documents for court approval
- Facilitating negotiations
This option offers professional guidance at a lower cost than full attorney representation.
When to Consult an Arizona Legal Paraprofessional
A legal paraprofessional (LP) can help you analyze your case and determine the best path forward. Jason Halper, the founder of JNH Legal Services, PLLC, is a dedicated LP with years of experience helping clients find cost-effective and efficient solutions. He is an accomplished paraprofessional and author, writing “Licensed to Lead: A Comprehensive Guide to Emerging as a Legal Paraprofessional.”
A legal paraprofessional can help you craft and implement your parenting plan with less stress and financial cost.
Contact an Arizona Legal Paraprofessional To Draft Your Parenting Plan
A legal paraprofessional can assist you with negotiating, drafting, and finalizing your parenting agreement.
Consult an experienced legal paraprofessional at JNH Legal Services, PLLC to learn more about how we can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
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