Parenting Time

Services » Children’s Family Law Issues » Parenting Time

Arranging Parenting Time With Your Children

It can be difficult for a child to adjust to a life divided between two homes. At Henderson Heinrichs LLP, our family lawyers understand how separation can impact all members of a family. At our office in Vancouver, British Columbia, we assist parents with this transition and provide guidance in developing meaningful relationships with their children.

Developing an Effective Parenting Plan

Who will pick up your children after school? Who will take them to get their haircut on the weekend? These are the types of details that can create conflicts between separated parents.

Because you will be interacting with your former spouse as your child grows up, it is best to come to an agreement about how you will settle these issues.

At Henderson Heinrichs LLP, our lawyers offer over 20 years of experience assisting parents with developing effective parenting plans. We do this by listening to our clients, identifying your goals, and then offering an objective perspective on how you can achieve outcomes that align with your goals.

Guiding You Through Difficult and Challenging Situations

Whatever your situation may be, our lawyers will provide you with a realistic assessment of your options. If you are in a situation that is unsuitable or unsafe for a child, we will provide you with the resources and help to support your safety and well-being and that of your child, and outline your options for achieving your desired outcomes.

Have Your Case Assessed Today

Find out how we can assist you with developing a parenting plan that makes sense for you and your family. Call Henderson Heinrichs LLP toll-free at 1-844-669-3500 for a free half-hour consultation or fill out our online booking form.

FAQS

Do I have to have a parenting agreement in BC?
Even if you have a really good relationship with your former spouse, it is a very good idea to have a parenting agreement in place. Things change and often, the introduction of a new partner can derail even the best co-parenting arrangements. Having the parenting arrangements in an agreement will allow you to enforce the agreement if things go sideways.

After separation it is good idea to put your parenting arrangements into a parenting agreement or in a separation agreement. This document can be provided to schools, doctors and other third parties that need to know who has parental authority to make decisions about the children.

If you are not able to reach an agreement on parenting, you will need to get a court to make orders on parenting.
What if my Ex won’t participate in a parenting agreement?
If you cannot get your partner to negotiate a parenting agreement, you can apply to court for orders which will provide for parenting arrangements, decision making protocols and support.
What happens if my Ex doesn’t follow our parenting agreement?
If you have an agreement or court order that provides for a parenting agreement that is not being followed by your former partner, you can apply to court to enforce that order or agreement. Fines can be levied against parents that do not follow agreements or orders. In extreme cases, the parent can be found to be guilty of contempt of court and put in jail for breaching parenting orders.
At what age can children decide which parent to live with?
Generally speaking, once a child turns 13, their wishes are going to be considered in parenting arrangements. The BC Family Law Act provides for a court to consider the wishes of the children in determining what is in their best interests but younger children are less likely to have a determining role. The decision of a child on parenting must be made without influence by the other parent. The maturity of the child will be considered.
What is a parenting plan?
A parenting plan is a very comprehensive agreement that sets out how you and your former spouse are going to deal with all matters regarding your children. It can include how decisions are made, how disputes are resolved and what amount of time the children spend with each parent.

Parenting plans can be negotiated with the assistance of lawyers or child therapy experts

More Faqs