Understanding Co-Parenting Agreements for Unmarried Couple

When a married couple divorces, child custody agreements are standard practice. But, when unmarried couples with children separate, establishing custody arrangements should not just be done with an oral agreement, a legal agreement is essential just as it is with divorce. The easiest and most cost-effective way for unmarried parents to establish a binding and enforceable co-parenting agreement is with an experienced mediator.

Should You Have a Court-Ordred Co-Parenting Agreement?

Co-parenting agreements are contracts that can be established between parents with or without a court order. Although a co-parenting agreement without a court order is possible, it operates on the assumption that both parents will perform their obligations as laid out in the contract in good faith. The problem is, if a parent fails to uphold their end of the contract, there is no way to enforce the obligations of the contract without one of the parents beginning court proceedings. That is why it is highly recommended that unmarried parents establish a court-ordered co-parenting agreement that is easily enforceable and far more effective in the long term.

What Are the Advantages of Working with a Mediator to Create a Co-Parenting Agreement?

Separation and resolving all child-related matters that are the result of separation is never easy. When you work with a mediator, your concerns about custody, time-sharing, and child support will be heard and addressed in private. You retain control and do not have to go through the added stress of public, court-based proceedings. At the end of mediation, you still have a legally-binding settlement including all required court documents, without the hassle and stress of court. Additionally, because you are able to avoid lengthy court proceedings and attorney fees, the cost of mediating a co-parenting agreement is a fraction of what it would be otherwise. The process also moves much more quickly, which is better for everyone, including the children. If you are unmarried and separating, speak to an experienced mediator to learn how you can establish a legally-binding co-parenting agreement without ever having to go to court.