A parenting plan or custody agreement is a document that addresses how the parents of minor children will share responsibility for the custody, support, and management of the children. Some states have a standard possession order (SPO) that addresses many of these issues. Courts often require each party to a divorce or child custody proceeding to submit a proposed parenting plan.
In California, a parenting plan, also known as a custody and visitation agreement, is a detailed document that outlines how divorced or separated parents will share the responsibilities of raising their minor children. The plan typically includes provisions for physical custody (where the children will live), legal custody (who makes important decisions for the children), visitation schedules, holiday and vacation arrangements, and guidelines for communication and dispute resolution. California does not use a standard possession order (SPO) like some other states. Instead, parents are encouraged to create a personalized parenting plan that suits their specific situation and meets the best interests of the children. If parents cannot agree on a plan, the court may order mediation and, if necessary, will make a custody determination based on the child's best interests. Courts in California require each party to a divorce or child custody proceeding to submit a proposed parenting plan for consideration.