Child custody agreements are legally binding agreements between parents or guardians that outline the terms of custody and visitation of a child or children. These agreements can be made through the court system or through mediation outside of court and can be either verbal or written. However, a written child custody agreement is the best way to ensure that all parties are clear on their responsibilities and obligations.

There are several factors that should be included in a written child custody agreement. First and foremost, the agreement should outline the custody arrangement. This should include whether one parent has sole custody or if both parents share joint custody. If joint custody is awarded, the agreement should outline the specifics of the arrangement, including how decisions will be made and how time will be divided between each parent.

The child custody agreement should also include a visitation schedule. This schedule should outline when the child will be with each parent, including holidays, school breaks, and weekends. Ideally, the schedule should be as consistent as possible to ensure stability for the child.

Another important aspect of a written child custody agreement is how expenses related to the child will be handled. This can include everything from medical expenses to extracurricular activities to transportation costs. The agreement should clearly outline who will be responsible for these expenses and how they will be divided.

In addition to outlining the specifics of the custody arrangement, a written child custody agreement should also include contingencies for potential changes in circumstances. For example, if one parent needs to move to another state, the agreement should outline how custody and visitation will be handled in that situation.

When drafting a written child custody agreement, it is important to consult with an experienced family law attorney. This can help ensure that all necessary factors are included and that the agreement is legally binding. Additionally, if there are any disputes or issues regarding the custody arrangement, an attorney can help navigate the legal process.

In conclusion, a written child custody agreement is an important tool for ensuring that all parties are clear on the terms of custody and visitation of a child. It is important to include details about the custody arrangement, a visitation schedule, how expenses will be handled, and contingencies for potential changes in circumstances. Working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure that the agreement is legally binding and can help navigate any disputes or issues that may arise.