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Creating a Kansas Parenting Plan is an essential step for parents navigating the complexities of co-parenting after a separation or divorce. This form outlines important details regarding the care and upbringing of children involved in the case. It includes sections for general information about the children, legal custody arrangements, and a parenting time schedule that specifies when each parent will spend time with their children. The plan can establish joint or sole legal custody, ensuring that both parents understand their rights and responsibilities. Additionally, it addresses how disputes will be resolved, particularly through mediation, and provides guidelines for communication during a parent's military deployment. The plan also requires parents to notify each other of any address changes or plans to remove children from the state, ensuring transparency and cooperation. By filling out this form, parents can create a structured framework that prioritizes the best interests of their children while fostering a cooperative parenting relationship.

Sample - Kansas Parenting Plan Form

IN THE DISTRICT COURT OF ______________________ COUNTY, KANSAS

In the Matter of:

 

 

________________________________

 

(Name of person who filed the Petition)

Case No. _____________________

and

 

 

________________________________

 

(Name of person who did not file the Petition)

 

 

PARENTING PLAN

 

“Petitioner” means the person who filed the Petition.

 

“Respondent” means the person who did not file the Petition.

 

“Parties” means the Petitioner and Respondent.

This Parenting Plan is

temporary permanent.

 

Proposed by Petitioner

Proposed by Respondent

Agreed by Petitioner and Respondent Developed by the

Court.

 

 

After due consideration, the Court enters the following Parenting Plan that serves the child(ren)’s best interests on

this _____ day of ________________________, 20_____:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Section I. GENERAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

This parenting plan applies to the following children:

 

 

 

 

Full Name of Child

Gender

 

Birth Date (Month/Yr) and Age

 

 

 

M

F

__________________________

 

 

 

 

M

F

__________________________

 

 

 

 

M

F

__________________________

 

 

 

 

M

F

__________________________

 

 

 

 

M

F

__________________________

 

For the purposes of this parenting plan, the following definitions apply:

Parent A is ____________________________________________(insert name), and

Parent B is ____________________________________________(insert name).

Section II. Legal Custody (Decision-Making)

A. Joint Legal Custody. Parents shall have joint legal custody of their minor child(ren). "Joint legal custody" means that both parents have equal rights to participate in, contribute to, and have responsibility for matters

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of health and education in their child(ren)'s best interests. Neither parent's rights are superior to the other parent's rights, and they should cooperate to determine what is in their children’s best interests.

B. Sole Legal Custody. Joint legal custody is not in the child(ren)’s best interests. “Sole legal custody” means that the parent granted sole legal custody has the primary right to decide matters of health and education in the child(ren)'s best interests. The parent not granted sole legal custody may make emergency decisions affecting the child(ren)’s health or safety when the child(ren) are in that parent's physical care and control. The grant of sole legal custody to one parent does not deprive the other parent of access to information

regarding the child(ren) unless the court specifically orders, stating the reasons for that determination.

1. Sole legal custody is granted to

Parent A

Parent B for the following reasons:

 

 

 

a.

Agreement of the parents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

b.

The other parent is unable or should not be allowed to exercise decision-making because:

 

_______________________________________________________________________________.

 

c.

There is a danger to the child(ren) because:_____________________________________

 

______________________________________________________________________________.

 

d.

Other: __________________________________________________________________

 

________________________________________________________________________________.

2.

Restriction of Information Regarding the Child(ren) to Non Legal Custodian.

 

 

 

The

Parent A Parent B is restrained from accessing the child(ren)’s health, educational and

other

personal

information

because

of

the

following

specific

reasons

:_____________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

_____________________________________________________________________________________.

Section III. Parenting Time Schedule.

Parent A shall have parenting time beginning at ________am pm ending at ______am pm as follows:

Parent A’s Weekday Schedule:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent A’s Weekend Schedule:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent A’s Other Times:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent B shall have parenting time beginning at ________am pm ending at ______am pm as follows:

Parent B’s Weekday Schedule:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

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____________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent B’s Weekend Schedule:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

Parent B’s Other Times:

___________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________

The holiday schedule as set out in the ______________________ (name county) Family Law Guidelines controls

holiday parenting time.

or

The holiday schedule is as follows:

HOLIDAY PARENTING SCHEDULE

Parent A

Even/Odd/Every

Parent B

Even/Odd/Every

New Year's Day: From ___________(day) at ______ (time)

until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Spring Break: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Spring Break: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Memorial Day/weekend: From ___________(day) at

______ (time) until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Mother’s Day: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Father’s Day/Weekend: From ___________(day) at

______ (time) until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Independence Day: From ___________(day) at ______ (time)

until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Labor Day/weekend: From ___________(day) at ______

(time) until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Halloween: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Thanksgiving Day/weekend: From ___________(day) at

______ (time) until ________________(day) at ______ (time)

Winter Break: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

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HOLIDAY PARENTING SCHEDULE

Parent A

Even/Odd/Every

Parent B

Even/Odd/Every

Winter Break: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Other: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Other: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Other: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Other: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Other: From ___________(day) at ______ (time) until

________________(day) at ______ (time)

Section IV. Dispute Resolution Process

Disputes between the parents, other than about child support, shall be submitted to:

Mediation by:______________________________________________________________(name of mediator)

The following dispute resolution method: _______________________________________________________.

Section V. Military Deployment, Mobilization, or Unaccompanied Tour

Parent A

Parent B is a military servicemember and the following shall apply upon notice of deployment,

mobilization, temporary duty, or unaccompanied tour:

1.A parent receiving deployment, mobilization, temporary duty or unaccompanied tour orders from the military shall be considered a “deployed parent.”

2.The absence, relocation or failure to comply with a parenting order by a “deployed parent,” shall not by itself constitute a material change in circumstances to make any permanent change to the parenting plan.

3.Any court order limiting previously ordered parenting rights due to the parent's deployment, mobilization, temporary duty, or unaccompanied tour shall state that event as its basis and shall constitute only a “temporary order.”

4.The nondeploying parent shall provide the court and deployed parent at least 30 days advance written notice of any change of address or telephone number.

5.The nondeploying parent shall reasonably accommodate the deployed parent’s leave schedule.

6.The nondeploying parent shall facilitate telephone and electronic communication between the children and the deployed parent.

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7.The deployed parent shall provide the nondeployed parent with timely information about the deployed parent’s anticipated deployment, leave during deployment, and release from deployment.

8.During deployment, mobilization, temporary duty, or unaccompanied tour, the parents shall make decisions about the child(ren) by the following methods:

______________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________.

9.During deployment, mobilization, temporary duty, or unaccompanied tour, the child(ren) shall live with:

Parent A Parent B Other

___________________________________________________________and the deployed parent shall have the

following parenting time with the child when available: __________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________.

Section VI. Address-Change

A. Each parent shall notify the other parent of any address change in writing no less than 30 days before changing address by sending written notice to the other parent by certified mail – restricted delivery, return receipt requested, at that other parent’s last known address.

B. Each parent shall notify the other parent of any plan to remove any child(ren) from the State of Kansas for more than 90 days by sending written notice to the other parent by certified mail – restricted delivery, return receipt requested, at that other parent’s last known address.

C. A parent is not required to give written notice of removal to the other parent under either (A) or (B) if the other parent has been convicted of a crime specified in Article 34 (crimes against persons), Article 35 (sex offenses), or Article 36 (crimes affecting family relationships and children) of Chapter 21 (Crimes and Punishments) of the Kansas Statutes Annotated to which the child(ren) was the victim.

Section VII. Other Requirements

Other requirements for this parenting plan: ______________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________

_________________________________________________________________________________________.

Section VIII. Signatures: Required if agreed upon by the parties.

Parent A

Parent B

Name: X____________________________________

Name: X______________________________________

(Signature)

(Signature)

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Name: _____________________________________

Name: _______________________________________

(Printed)

(Printed)

Address: ___________________________________

Address: _____________________________________

___________________________________

_____________________________________

___________________________________

_____________________________________

Telephone: _________________________________

Telephone: ___________________________________

Date Signed: ________________________________

Date Signed: __________________________________

Attorney (if any): ____________________________

Attorney (if any): _______________________________

(Signature)

(Signature)

Attorney (if any): ____________________________

Attorney (if any): _______________________________

(Printed)

(Printed)

APPROVED THIS _____DAY OF ___________________, 20______.

______________________________________

DISTRICT JUDGE

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Form Information

Fact Name Description
Governing Law The Kansas Parenting Plan form is governed by Kansas Statutes Annotated, Chapter 60, Article 16.
Purpose This form outlines the custody and parenting time arrangements for children involved in a divorce or separation.
Legal Custody Types Parents can choose between joint legal custody, where both parents share decision-making, or sole legal custody, where one parent has the primary decision-making authority.
Parenting Time Schedule The form includes a section for detailing each parent's parenting time, specifying weekdays, weekends, and holidays.
Dispute Resolution In case of disputes, the plan encourages mediation and outlines how parents can resolve disagreements outside of court.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out Kansas Parenting Plan

Completing the Kansas Parenting Plan form is essential for establishing a clear agreement on the care and custody of your children. Follow the steps below to ensure all necessary information is accurately filled out.

  1. Enter the names of the Petitioner and Respondent at the top of the form.
  2. Fill in the case number provided by the court.
  3. Indicate whether the Parenting Plan is temporary or permanent.
  4. Specify who proposed the plan: Petitioner, Respondent, or if it was developed by the Court.
  5. Provide the date on which the Parenting Plan is being entered.
  6. List the full names, genders, birth dates, and ages of all children involved in the Parenting Plan.
  7. Identify Parent A and Parent B by inserting their names in the designated areas.
  8. Choose between Joint Legal Custody or Sole Legal Custody and provide the necessary details based on your choice.
  9. If Sole Legal Custody is chosen, explain the reasons for this decision in the provided space.
  10. Outline any restrictions on information access regarding the children for the non-legal custodian, if applicable.
  11. Detail the parenting time schedule for Parent A and Parent B, including specific times for weekdays, weekends, and other times.
  12. Fill out the holiday parenting schedule, specifying which parent will have the children during each holiday.
  13. Describe the dispute resolution process, including the name of the mediator if applicable.
  14. If either parent is a military servicemember, complete the section regarding military deployment and its implications.
  15. Provide the address change notification requirements for both parents.
  16. List any additional requirements or considerations in the designated section.
  17. Have both parents sign the form where indicated, confirming agreement to the plan.

Obtain Answers on Kansas Parenting Plan

  1. What is the purpose of the Kansas Parenting Plan form?

    The Kansas Parenting Plan form is designed to outline the responsibilities and rights of each parent regarding the care and upbringing of their children. It serves as a framework for decision-making, parenting time, and communication between parents, ensuring that the children's best interests are prioritized.

  2. Who should use the Kansas Parenting Plan form?

    This form is intended for parents who are involved in a custody dispute or are seeking to establish a formal agreement regarding the care of their children. It is applicable to both parents, referred to as the Petitioner (the one who filed the petition) and the Respondent (the one who did not file the petition).

  3. What information is required in the Parenting Plan?

    The Parenting Plan requires general information about the children, including their names, genders, and birth dates. Additionally, it needs to specify the names of both parents, the type of legal custody arrangement (joint or sole), and a detailed parenting time schedule that outlines when each parent will spend time with the children.

  4. What is the difference between joint and sole legal custody?

    Joint legal custody means both parents share equal rights and responsibilities in making decisions about their children's health and education. Conversely, sole legal custody grants one parent the primary authority to make these decisions, while the other parent retains limited rights, typically for emergency situations. The court will determine which arrangement is in the best interests of the children.

  5. How is parenting time scheduled?

    The Parenting Plan includes a detailed schedule for parenting time, specifying when each parent will have the children. This includes weekday and weekend schedules, as well as holiday arrangements. Parents can agree on the schedule or the court may provide guidance based on local family law guidelines.

  6. What happens if parents cannot agree on a parenting plan?

    If parents cannot reach an agreement, they may be required to participate in mediation to resolve disputes. The Parenting Plan may also outline specific methods for dispute resolution, ensuring that disagreements are handled in a constructive manner.

  7. What should parents do if one is a military servicemember?

    Special provisions apply if one parent is a military servicemember. The Parenting Plan will address how deployment or mobilization affects custody arrangements, ensuring that the non-deployed parent accommodates the deployed parent's schedule and facilitates communication between the children and the deployed parent.

  8. How can parents change the Parenting Plan?

    Any changes to the Parenting Plan require written notice to the other parent at least 30 days in advance. This applies to address changes or plans to remove children from the state for more than 90 days. However, if there are concerns about safety due to a parent's criminal history, the notice requirement may not apply.

Common mistakes

Filling out the Kansas Parenting Plan form can be a complex task, and many people make mistakes that can impact the outcome. One common error is incomplete information. Parents often forget to fill in all the required sections, such as the names and birth dates of their children. Missing this information can lead to delays in processing the plan or even require the court to ask for additional documentation later.

Another frequent mistake involves unclear custody arrangements. When parents select joint or sole legal custody, they must clearly explain their reasons. Some fail to provide sufficient detail, which can leave the court unsure about the best interests of the child. Clear and specific reasons help the court understand the situation better, making it easier to approve the plan.

Additionally, many parents overlook the importance of a detailed parenting time schedule. Vague terms like "as needed" or "flexible" do not provide a clear picture of when each parent will spend time with the child. A well-defined schedule helps avoid future disputes and ensures that both parents understand their responsibilities and rights.

Another mistake is not addressing dispute resolution methods. Parents often skip this section or select a method without understanding how it works. It’s crucial to choose a mediator or method that both parents agree on and feel comfortable with. This can prevent conflicts from escalating and provide a clear path for resolving issues.

Lastly, some parents fail to consider military deployment issues. If one parent is in the military, they must address how deployment will affect custody and parenting time. Not outlining these circumstances can lead to misunderstandings and legal complications later. Including specific provisions for communication and parenting during deployment is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with the child.

Documents used along the form

The Kansas Parenting Plan form is a crucial document for parents navigating custody arrangements. However, several other forms and documents often accompany it to ensure a comprehensive approach to parenting and legal responsibilities. Below is a list of these essential documents.

  • Child Support Worksheet: This form outlines the financial responsibilities of each parent regarding child support. It calculates the amount based on income, expenses, and custody arrangements.
  • Petition for Custody: A legal request submitted to the court by one parent seeking custody of the child(ren). It initiates the legal process and outlines the reasons for the request.
  • Affidavit of Financial Disclosure: This document requires both parents to disclose their financial information. It helps the court assess child support obligations accurately.
  • Visitation Schedule: A detailed outline of the times and conditions under which the non-custodial parent can spend time with the child(ren). It complements the parenting plan by specifying visitation rights.
  • Agreement to Mediate: A form that indicates both parents agree to mediation for resolving disputes related to the parenting plan. It promotes cooperation and communication.
  • Modification Request: This document is used to request changes to an existing custody or parenting plan. It must provide valid reasons for the proposed modifications.
  • Notice of Address Change: A form that parents must use to inform each other and the court of any changes to their residential addresses, ensuring ongoing communication and compliance with custody arrangements.

Each of these documents plays a vital role in creating a clear and enforceable parenting plan. By understanding and utilizing them, parents can better navigate their responsibilities and ensure the well-being of their child(ren).

Similar forms

  • Florida Parenting Plan: Similar to the Kansas Parenting Plan, it outlines custody arrangements, parenting time schedules, and decision-making responsibilities for parents. Both documents prioritize the best interests of the child and require detailed information about each parent's roles.
  • California Child Custody Agreement: This document serves to establish custody and visitation rights. Like the Kansas Parenting Plan, it includes sections for legal custody, physical custody, and a schedule for parenting time, ensuring clarity in co-parenting arrangements.
  • Texas Standard Possession Order: This order details the rights and responsibilities of parents regarding their children. It includes a schedule for visitation and decision-making authority, paralleling the Kansas Parenting Plan's focus on structured parenting time and legal custody definitions.
  • New York Child Custody Agreement: This agreement outlines the custody and visitation rights of parents. It shares similarities with the Kansas Parenting Plan in that both documents emphasize the child's best interests and require specific schedules for parenting time.
  • Illinois Parenting Plan: This plan addresses the allocation of parental responsibilities and parenting time. Like the Kansas version, it includes provisions for decision-making and a detailed schedule, ensuring both parents are informed and involved.
  • Ohio Parenting Agreement: This document outlines custody and visitation rights for children. It is similar to the Kansas Parenting Plan in its emphasis on joint decision-making and the importance of a structured parenting time schedule.
  • Pennsylvania Custody Agreement: This agreement details custody arrangements and parenting time. It aligns with the Kansas Parenting Plan by focusing on the child's welfare and providing a framework for co-parenting responsibilities.
  • Virginia Parenting Plan: This plan specifies the custody and visitation rights of parents. It mirrors the Kansas Parenting Plan in its structure, requiring detailed schedules and decision-making processes to ensure the child's best interests are met.
  • Michigan Parenting Time Order: This order establishes the rights and responsibilities of parents regarding their children. It is similar to the Kansas Parenting Plan in that both documents provide clear guidelines for parenting time and decision-making authority.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the Kansas Parenting Plan form, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Below is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure the process goes smoothly.

  • Do read the entire form carefully before starting to fill it out. Understanding each section will help you provide accurate information.
  • Don't rush through the form. Taking your time can prevent mistakes that may require corrections later.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information about your children, including their names, genders, and birth dates.
  • Don't omit any details regarding custody arrangements or parenting time. Incomplete information can lead to misunderstandings or disputes.
  • Do communicate openly with the other parent about the plan, especially if you are both agreeing on terms. Collaboration can lead to a better outcome for your children.
  • Don't include any inflammatory language or personal grievances in the form. Focus on what is best for the children.
  • Do seek assistance from a legal professional if you have any questions or concerns about the form or the process.

Misconceptions

  • Misconception 1: The Kansas Parenting Plan is only for divorcing couples.

    • This form can be used by any parents who need to establish a parenting plan, whether they are married, divorced, or never married.

  • Misconception 2: The Parenting Plan is permanent and cannot be changed.

    • The plan is designed to be flexible. Parents can modify it if circumstances change and both parties agree.

  • Misconception 3: Only one parent can have legal custody.

    • Joint legal custody is common. This means both parents share decision-making responsibilities for their child’s health and education.

  • Misconception 4: The Parenting Plan does not consider the child's best interests.

    • The plan explicitly states that it serves the child's best interests, guiding decisions about custody and parenting time.

  • Misconception 5: Parents must agree on every detail for the plan to be valid.

    • While cooperation is encouraged, the court can develop a plan if parents cannot agree on specific terms.

  • Misconception 6: The Parenting Plan is only about visitation schedules.

    • It covers various aspects, including legal custody, decision-making, and dispute resolution processes, not just visitation.

  • Misconception 7: The form is complicated and difficult to complete.

    • The form is structured to be straightforward, allowing parents to fill in necessary information without excessive legal jargon.

Key takeaways

When filling out and using the Kansas Parenting Plan form, it is essential to keep the following key takeaways in mind:

  • Complete Child Information: Accurately list all children involved in the parenting plan, including their full names, genders, birth dates, and ages. This information is critical for clarity and legal purposes.
  • Understand Custody Types: Familiarize yourself with the definitions of joint and sole legal custody. Knowing which type applies to your situation will help in making informed decisions regarding your child's welfare.
  • Detail Parenting Time Schedules: Clearly outline the parenting time for both parents, specifying weekdays, weekends, and holidays. A well-defined schedule can minimize conflicts and ensure both parents are aware of their responsibilities.
  • Dispute Resolution Process: Establish a method for resolving disputes, such as mediation. Including this in the plan can help address conflicts amicably and efficiently.
  • Notify of Address Changes: Each parent must provide written notice of any address changes at least 30 days in advance. This requirement is crucial for maintaining communication and ensuring the child’s stability.