Over the course of your divorce, you and your soon-to-be ex-spouse might experience many points of contention. One of these is sure to be child custody, but determining the custodianship of your child is not something to approach with a desire to satisfy self-interest.
Creating a custody plan is something you should do with your child’s best interests in mind. By understanding how the mediation process can help you achieve this goal, you and your co-parent can make the right decision for the sake of your child’s future.
Retaining control over your child’s upbringing
When you undergo standard Pennsylvania custody proceedings, a judge will make the final decision regarding the custody of your child. Coming to a mutual decision through mediation ensures that you and your co-parent are the ones with full control of your child’s upbringing. The mediation process also provides a perfect opportunity to form a parenting plan and schedule that both you and your ex-spouse can adhere to for years to come.
Maintaining an amicable relationship with your co-parent
Battling for custody rights in a courtroom setting can be a highly contentious affair that may only serve to breed further animosity between you and your co-parent. Mediation is a peaceful resolution option by comparison and may even give way to newfound understanding. Taking steps to keep your relationship amicable can help ensure that your child grows up in a loving family environment.
While mediation may not work for every divorcing couple, it is an option that everyone should consider. Successful mediation keeps things civil between co-parents and helps create opportunities for children to live happily in an otherwise tense situation.