Sean Gentile on Negotiating a Co-Parenting Agreement

With an increase in divorce rates in the state of Florida, Orlando residents are seeking the aid of certified family mediators for effective arbitration services. A comprehensive parenting agreement is a productive means to evaluate a child’s developmental needs while establishing a stable home environment. Divorce mediation facilitates to minimize conflict between parents while ensuring the emotional and psychological well-being of the child. With Orlando having one of the highest divorce rates in the state, a parenting plan encourages individuals to develop a clear visitation schedule. Parenting plans also encompass factors such as living arrangements and geographical considerations, healthcare, education, financial support, extracurricular activities, and various other social aspects.

Recent studies suggest that children are far more likely to cope with a divorce if both parents exhibit signs of cooperation. Likewise, implementing clear rules and expectations provides a sense of structure and offers households increased stability. Ultimately, a plan should be both realistic and fair with an enhanced focus on the needs of the child. The following suggestions will help individuals prepare for negotiating a co-parenting agreement:

Know the Details of the Case & Understand Court Procedures

Navigating the Orlando judicial system can be a complex endeavor, so it is essential that individuals be familiar with the details of their case and perform necessary research regarding their parental responsibilities. Mediation often requires in-person communication to resolve child-related issues and may involve extended family members. Sean Gentile, a Certified Supreme Court Family Mediator and owner of Sean Gentile Child Support, Divorce and More, states that it is imperative that individuals arrive on time and voice all concerns in a professional manner. A parent should have an understanding of their rights as it will enable them to lead deliberations. She claims that preparations may include performing a background check on individuals their ex-partner brings around their children and investigating crime rates in residential areas when discussing living arrangements. Likewise, seeking the aid of a mediator is a proactive means to help an individual achieve equitable and fair co-parenting arrangements.

State Co-parenting Expectations

Making adequate preparations for a divorce mediation allows one to help control the narrative and prepare for negotiations. Sean Gentile states that parental agreements should be detailed and outline all aspects of childcare to avoid long-term complications and unnecessary debate. Parenting plans offer a level of security as they are highly structured, so individuals should be assertive with their initial requests. A time-share arrangement is specific and may cover any issue relating to the child's upbringing, from transition plans between homes, holidays and vacations, disciplinary tactics, and day-care schedules. The process of a divorce is tedious, so it is crucial that both parents deal with all aspects of separation early on in the proceedings.

If met with a verbal disagreement, no disparaging comments or unnecessary communication should take place at the child’s expense. Similarly, failing to suggest times to modify or revise the documents may lead to future miscommunications. Leverage is often an effective way to assert oneself and gain the upper hand in negotiations. Some parents may also opt to make their parenting plan legally binding depending on the circumstances of the case.

Ensure Arrangements are Properly Documented & Study the Final Judgement

Developing an effective parenting plan requires open communication and various conflict resolution tactics. Individuals should ensure all the terms of their arrangement are written down, and one should never sign a document they do not agree with completely.

Additionally, many parents do not allocate the time to review the pages of their mediation agreement. This aspect is crucial so that both parties can successfully co-parent and refer back to the terms of their arrangement when necessary. Similarly, if the other party fails to comply with the terms or follow the mediated agreement, an individual may return to court and ensure the terms are enforced.

Every situation is unique and will vary depending on the individuals involved. Implementing an effective co-parenting arrangement requires open communication and an understanding of one's parental responsibilities. Taking the necessary steps to prepare for negotiations and utilizing leverage will help one obtain a favorable timeshare arrangement. Ultimately, a dual effort between both parents will have a positive impact on a child and allow the child to flourish and reach his or her full potential.