Divorce is never easy, and when children are involved, the challenges and concerns typically increase. Long-distance parenting, where one parent lives far from the child, adds another layer of complexity.
With planning and cooperation, you can obtain a custody and parenting plan that protects the kids and your right to spend time with them.
Creating a long-distance plan
A long-distance parenting plan is a legal document that outlines how parents will share custody and visitation. It includes details such as:
- Visitation schedule: Establishes when and how often you can visit the child, including regular visits, holiday schedules and summer vacations.
- Communication methods: Outlines your parent-child communications through regular phone calls, video chats and other methods
- Travel arrangements: Details who will be responsible for travel expenses and how travel logistics
You should also address other parenting issues that may be unique to your family situation.
Tips that promote success
To make long-distance parenting work, consider following these tips:
- Stay consistent: Maintain a regular schedule for visits and communication
- Be flexible: Remain adaptable to help accommodate new circumstances
- Use technology: Leverage video calls, messaging apps and social media to stay connected
- Involve your child: Allow them to have a say about visits and communications if appropriate
When dealing with child custody matters, prioritize the child’s emotional and physical well-being above all else in your decisions.
In Rhode Island, parenting plans must be approved by the court. A sound plan should be detailed and address all aspects of custody and visitation to ensure it meets the child’s best interests and gives you quality time together.
With experienced legal guidance, you create a plan that benefits your child and satisfies the court’s requirements, regardless of where you reside.
