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Child Custody Agreement

Parenting arrangements after divorce or separation defining custody and visitation rights.

CHILD CUSTODY AGREEMENT

This Child Custody Agreement is made on [DATE] between [PARENT 1 NAME] and [PARENT 2 NAME] regarding their child(ren): [CHILDREN NAMES].

1. LEGAL CUSTODY

Legal custody (decision-making authority) shall be: [JOINT/SOLE] with [DETAILS]. Major decisions require [AGREEMENT TERMS].

2. PHYSICAL CUSTODY

Primary residence: [CUSTODIAL PARENT]. Physical custody schedule: [DETAILED SCHEDULE INCLUDING WEEKDAYS, WEEKENDS, HOLIDAYS].

3. VISITATION SCHEDULE

Regular visitation: [SCHEDULE]. Holiday schedule: [HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS]. Summer vacation: [VACATION TERMS].

4. TRANSPORTATION

Transportation between homes: [TRANSPORTATION ARRANGEMENTS]. Pick-up/drop-off locations: [LOCATIONS].

5. COMMUNICATION

Children may contact non-custodial parent: [COMMUNICATION RULES]. Parents shall communicate regarding children: [COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL].

6. MODIFICATION

This Agreement may be modified only by court order or written agreement of both parents approved by the court.

PARENT 1: _________________ PARENT 2: _________________

[PARENT 1 NAME] [PARENT 2 NAME]

Date: ___________ Date: ___________

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What is a Child Custody Agreement?

A Child Custody Agreement is a legal document that establishes parenting arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and living arrangements for children when parents are divorced, separated, or unmarried. Essential for divorced parents, separated couples, and unmarried parents who need structured parenting plans, this agreement prioritizes children's best interests while defining each parent's rights and responsibilities. The document typically covers legal custody, physical custody, visitation schedules, holiday arrangements, transportation, communication guidelines, and modification procedures. Critical for parents who need clear guidelines for co-parenting, ensuring children maintain relationships with both parents, establishing predictable routines, and providing legal framework for resolving future parenting disputes while protecting children's emotional and physical well-being.