Contents
Introduction
Are you a parent living in the state of Indiana? If so, you may have heard about the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines, but you may not know all about these guidelines.
This blog post will provide an overview of the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines, including what they are, how they work, and how they can be used to help you make decisions regarding parenting time. Keep reading to learn more about this important topic.
What are the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines?
Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are the legal guidelines established to provide a standard schedule for parenting time arrangements after a separation or divorce.
The guidelines were established to promote the best interests of the children and encourage frequent and continuing contact between parents and their children.
These guidelines are the minimum amount of time that the non-custodial parent can expect to spend with their children.
The guidelines provide a detailed schedule for when children are to be with each parent during weekends, holidays, and vacations. They also outline guidelines for how parents can handle day-to-day parenting decisions and communication.
The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines cover children of all ages, including infants and toddlers, as well as older children and teenagers.
They also apply to all family structures, including families with joint custody, sole custody, or split custody arrangements.
It is important to note that the guidelines are just that guidelines.
Parents can always agree to a different schedule that better suits their family’s needs. However, if they cannot come to an agreement, the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines will be used to create a default schedule for the family.
It is also important to keep in mind that the guidelines are not set in stone and can be modified by a judge or by mutual agreement of the parents.
However, before modifying the guidelines, it is essential to understand the legal process involved and the impact it may have on the family’s well-being.
Overall, the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a structure and baseline for parenting time arrangements after a separation or divorce.
While they may not work for everyone, they can provide a starting point for parents to create a workable and successful co-parenting plan for their children.
How are the Guidelines Used?
The Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a standard framework for parents to follow when creating a parenting schedule.
They are designed to ensure that both parents have regular and meaningful time with their children while also promoting stability and predictability for the children.
In most cases, the guidelines will be used to create a parenting schedule that determines when each parent will have the children.
The schedule will typically include specific times and days for pick-up and drop-off, as well as holiday and vacation schedules.
The guidelines also provide guidance on communication between parents, such as notifying each other of any changes to the schedule.
Additionally, they offer suggestions for resolving disputes, such as through mediation or parenting coordination.
It is important to note that the guidelines are not mandatory, and parents are free to create a parenting plan that deviates from the standard guidelines.
However, if a dispute arises and the case goes to court, the guidelines will be used as a starting point for determining the parenting time arrangement.
What are the Standard Exceptions to the Guidelines?
While the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines provide a comprehensive framework for creating a parenting schedule, there are certain situations in which the guidelines may not be followed.
These exceptions are commonly known as “standard exceptions,” and they are important to consider when creating a parenting plan.
The standard exceptions include:
1. Holidays and Special Occasions: Holidays and special occasions such as birthdays, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and religious holidays are typically shared by both parents. The parenting time schedule may be adjusted to accommodate these special events.
2. Distance and Travel Time: If the parents live a significant distance apart, the parenting time schedule may need to be adjusted to accommodate travel time. The guidelines provide specific recommendations for parents who live within 100 miles of each other, between 100 and 150 miles, and over 150 miles apart.
3. Child’s Age and Developmental Stage: The parenting time schedule may need to be adjusted based on the child’s age and developmental stage. For example, infants and young children may benefit from shorter, more frequent visits with each parent, while older children may prefer longer periods of time with each parent.
4. Child’s Health and Safety: If the child has a medical condition or other health or safety concern, the parenting time schedule may need to be adjusted to accommodate the child’s needs.
It’s important to note that while these standard exceptions are common, they are not exhaustive. In some cases, parents may need to deviate from the guidelines to meet the unique needs of their family.
Now, we will discuss what to do if parents cannot agree on a schedule.
What if Parents Cannot Agree on a Schedule?
Even though the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines offer a standard schedule, parents are encouraged to create their own parenting time plan that works for their specific situation. However, if parents cannot come to an agreement, there are several steps they can take.
First, parents should try to negotiate and work out a plan themselves. If this does not work, mediation may be the next step. Mediation is a process where a neutral third-party mediator helps the parents come to a mutual agreement. Mediation can be a helpful tool for parents who want to avoid the cost and stress of going to court.
If mediation fails, parents may have to go to court and ask a judge to make a decision. In Indiana, courts are required to use the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines as a starting point for determining a parenting time schedule. However, the court can consider the specific needs of each family and deviate from the guidelines if necessary.
It is important for parents to keep in mind that any parenting time plan established by the court must be in the best interest of the child. Factors such as the child’s age, health, and educational needs may be considered by the court.
In some cases, parents may need to seek the advice of an attorney to help them navigate the legal system and protect their rights. An experienced family law attorney can provide valuable guidance and representation throughout the process.
How Can Parents Modify the Guidelines?
Parents can modify the guidelines. Parents who concur that current changes to the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines are in their child’s best interests should file their written agreement with the court for approval. Parents may agree to some or all of the changes to the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines and should be precise in their written agreement.
Conclusion
Overall, the Indiana Parenting Time Guidelines serve as a helpful tool for parents to create a parenting schedule that meets the needs of both the parents and the children.
By following these guidelines, parents can ensure that their children have the opportunity to maintain a positive and loving relationship with both parents.