Free Custody Agreement

1. Introduction

This Custody Agreement ("Agreement") is entered into on [Date] between [Parent 1's Full Name] ("Parent 1"), residing at [Parent 1's Address], and [Parent 2's Full Name] ("Parent 2"), residing at [Parent 2's Address], collectively referred to as "the Parents."

1.1 Purpose of the Agreement

The purpose of this Agreement is to establish the custody and visitation arrangements for [Child's Full Name] ("the Child"), born on [Child's Date of Birth], and to outline the rights and responsibilities of each parent regarding the Child's upbringing and welfare.

2. Custody Arrangements

2.1 Legal and Physical Custody

The Parents agree to share joint legal custody, meaning they will both have the authority to make major decisions regarding the Child's education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and general welfare. Parent 1 shall have primary physical custody, meaning the Child will primarily reside with Parent 1, while Parent 2 will have scheduled visitation rights as outlined below.

2.2 Custody Schedule

• Weekday Schedule
  The Child shall reside with Parent 1 on weekdays from 3:00 PM on Monday to 7:00 AM on Friday. This schedule ensures stability and consistency for the Child during school days, allowing them to maintain a routine.

• Weekend Schedule

  Parent 2 shall have visitation rights every other weekend, starting from 5:00 PM on Friday to 5:00 PM on Sunday. This arrangement allows Parent 2 to maintain a close and meaningful relationship with the Child, providing quality time together outside of school hours.

• Holiday Schedule

  Holidays and special occasions, including but not limited to Christmas, Thanksgiving, birthdays, and school breaks, shall be divided between the Parents equitably and fairly. The specific schedule for holidays shall be determined and agreed upon annually or as needed.

2.3 Right of First Refusal

If the custodial parent (Parent 1) is unable to care for the Child for more than [Specific Timeframe], they must offer the other parent (Parent 2) the opportunity to care for the Child before arranging alternative care. This provision promotes cooperation and shared parenting responsibilities.

3. Visitation Rights

3.1 Non-Custodial Parent's Visitation Schedule

Parent 2 shall have visitation rights on alternate Saturdays and Sundays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. These visitation periods provide Parent 2 with meaningful time to bond with the Child outside of school hours and weekends, fostering a close relationship and shared experiences.

3.2 Supervised Visitation (if applicable)

If deemed necessary for the Child's safety or well-being, visitation may be supervised by a mutually agreed-upon supervisor, such as a trusted family member or professional supervisor. The location and duration of supervised visitation shall be determined by the agreement of both Parents.

3.3 Vacation and Extended Visitation

Each parent shall have the right to two weeks of uninterrupted vacation time with the Child per year. The timing of vacation periods shall be communicated and agreed upon with reasonable notice to the other parent to ensure minimal disruption to the Child's routine.

4. Decision-Making Authority

4.1 Major Decisions

Both Parents shall jointly make major decisions regarding the Child's education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. This includes decisions about school enrollment, medical treatment, religious practices, and participation in sports or other activities.

4.2 Dispute Resolution Mechanism

In the event of a disagreement regarding major decisions, the Parents agree to first attempt mediation facilitated by a neutral third party. If mediation is unsuccessful, either Parent may seek legal resolution through the appropriate court system. The best interests of the Child shall guide all decision-making processes.

5. Child Support

5.1 Calculation Method

Child support shall be calculated based on the income of both parents and under the child support guidelines of [State/Country]. Income shall include wages, bonuses, benefits, and any other sources of income.

5.2 Payment Schedule

Child support payments shall be made monthly on the 1st day of each month. Payments shall be made directly to the custodial parent (Parent 1) unless otherwise agreed upon in writing and documented with a formal agreement between the Parents.

5.3 Extraordinary Expenses

In addition to basic child support, both Parents shall share equally in the responsibility for extraordinary expenses related to the Child's health, education, and extracurricular activities. Extraordinary expenses may include but are not limited to medical bills, tuition fees, and costs associated with specialized programs or equipment for the Child.

6. Responsibilities of Each Parent

6.1 Child's Basic Needs

Each parent shall provide for the Child's basic needs, including adequate food, clothing, shelter, and medical care. Both Parents shall ensure that the Child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs are met to the best of their abilities.

6.2 Transportation Arrangements

The Parents shall share transportation responsibilities for visitation exchanges and other necessary travel involving the Child. Transportation arrangements shall be communicated and agreed upon in advance to ensure the Child's safety and well-being.

6.3 Communication Guidelines

Both Parents shall maintain open and respectful communication regarding the Child's well-being, progress, and any significant events or changes in the Child's life. Communication may include phone calls, emails, text messages, or other agreed-upon methods of communication.

7. Communication and Information Sharing

7.1 Communication between Parents

Communication regarding the Child shall primarily be conducted via email and text messages. Both Parents shall commit to timely responses, acknowledging receipt of messages within 24 hours, unless in cases of emergencies. Both Parents shall not hinder or interfere with reasonable communication between the Child and the other Parent, ensuring open and transparent communication channels for the Child's well-being.

7.2 Sharing of Child's Information

Both Parents shall have access to and share relevant information regarding the Child's education, healthcare, extracurricular activities, and social life. This includes sharing school reports, medical records, and other pertinent information to ensure continuity of care and support for the Child.

8. Parenting Plan Amendments

8.1 Procedure for Amending the Agreement

Any amendments to this Agreement must be made in writing and signed by both Parents. Amendments may be made in response to significant changes in circumstances, such as relocation, changes in employment, or changes in the Child's needs.

8.2 Legal Requirements for Changes

Amendments must comply with the laws and regulations of [State/Country] regarding child custody, visitation, and support. Changes that significantly impact the Child's well-being or parental rights may require court approval.

9. Legal Considerations

9.1 Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of [State/Country]. Any disputes arising from this Agreement shall be resolved under the laws of [State/Country].

9.2 Severability Clause

If any provision of this Agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect. The parties agree to replace any invalid or unenforceable provision with a valid and enforceable provision that achieves the intended purpose of the Agreement.

9.3 Entire Agreement Clause

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties regarding the Child's custody, visitation, and support. This Agreement supersedes any prior agreements, understandings, or arrangements, whether oral or written, regarding the same subject matter.

10. Signatures

The Parents hereby acknowledge their agreement to the terms and conditions outlined in this Custody Agreement.

[Parent 1's Full Name]

[Date]

[Parent 2's Full Name]

[Date]

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