You need to know and understand the laws pertaining to child custody in your state. Learn more about creating a custody schedule in Indiana.
Making
a child custody schedule that will work is essential. You need to
follow the custody laws in your state so that the court will accept
your custody schedule. If you live in Indiana, you can create a
schedule that supports your custody arrangements. The Indiana
Code, Title 31, Article 17 has
regulations about
child custody.
Knowing and understanding these laws is one of the first steps in
developing your schedule. Indiana regulations apply to all aspects of
your custody schedule including:
The
residential schedule that shows where your child is during the week
and on weekends;
The
holiday schedule that shows where your child spends holidays;
The
special occasion schedule that shows where your child spends school
breaks, vacations, birthdays and other special events; and
Extra
provisions and information that helps your schedule run smoothly and
work effectively.
The
laws in Indiana do not have specific requirements for any part of a
custody schedule so you have the flexibility to customize your
schedule so it fits your child's needs. Article 31-17, 2-8 specifies
that a custody schedule must be made in accordance with the child's
best interests. You need to consider what is best for your child as
you create your schedule. Some factors that the court considers that
affect the welfare of your child are:
Your
child's gender and age.
Each
parent's wishes regarding custody.
Your
child's wishes regarding custody. The Indiana court
gives more consideration to a child who is fourteen years old and
older.
Your
child's relationships with both parents, siblings and other
important people. Relationships that benefit your child should be
continued.
How
your child is acclimated to his/her home, school and community.
The
physical and mental health of all people involved in your child's
life.
Any
history or evidence of domestic violence or abuse by either parent.
Usually
when parents are able to cooperate and create a custody schedule
together, the court will accept it. If you place your child's needs
and welfare first, you can create an effective Indiana custody
schedule that the court will accept.
Tracy Bensun is interested in the law and especially family law. Her main interest lies in how children are affected by divorce and child custody. She has done extensive research on her own and loves to share her knowledge. She is affiliated with Custody X Change, which is designed to assist in child custody visitation schedules, custody agreements and parenting plans.
