More About Parenting Time

There are many different kinds of parenting plans.  Two common equal parenting time schedules involve week on/week off parenting time or an arrangement called a 5-2-2-5 parenting plan.  For a 5-2-2-5 plan, the parents will alternate weekends with the children and also each have the children two days during the week.  There are also many different "unequal" parenting time schedules. If one parent has more parenting time than the other parent, the parent with more time will be designated the "primary residential parent."  A "primary residential parent" might, for example, exercise parenting time during the entire school week and alternate weekends with the other parent.  If one parent relocates out of Arizona, the parties will usually exercise a long-distance parenting time schedule, e.g. the "primary residential parent" might have the children during the school year and the other parent would spend summers with the children.  The above are only some examples of the many different parenting plans exercised by divorced/separated parents in Arizona.

If the parents are unable to reach a parenting time agreement themselves, the Court will step in and order a parenting plan.  The Court may employ experts to interview the parties and children.  These experts will report back to the Court their opinion on the matter.  The Court will consider the Best Interest of the Child Factors, enumerated in A.R.S. 24-403, to make a determination regarding parenting time and legal decision-making.  A parenting plan generally cannot be modified for one year after it is entered into by the parties.

How I Can Help

I have substantial experience helping people establish and modify parenting agreements during paternity, divorce and legal separation cases. Whether you and your child’s other parent are on good terms or you are anticipating a battle, I can help you move through this process as quickly and efficiently as possible. Please click the link below or contact my office today to schedule a consultation.