If you are getting divorced, there is a good chance that both you and your ex will be granted custody or visitation rights. Therefore, it is important to include the details of how and when child exchanges will take place in a parenting plan. In some cases, a Minnesota judge will craft a custody or visitation plan by which you will be required to abide.
The important details to include in a child exchange plan
It is important to specify who will be picking up or dropping the children off as well as what happens if a parent can’t make it to the exchange location on time. If a child is flying to the exchange point, it is a good idea to include protocols that will keep your son or daughter safe throughout his or her journey. Finally, a child exchange plan should specify who is responsible for transportation costs.
Where should you and your ex-spouse meet?
It may be possible to simply drop your child off at your ex’s home or apartment at the agreed-upon exchange time. However, if this is not practical, you can ask that a custody or visitation exchange take place at a neutral location, such as a park or a local mall. An attorney may be able to give you some ideas as to where an exchange should take place.
Ideally, you and your ex-spouse will work together to do what is best for your child. However, if you and this person don’t get along, it may be necessary to resolve child custody or other disputes with the help of a mediator or a judge. A family law attorney may represent your interests if a dispute arises with your child’s other parent.
