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 Massachusetts, a parenting plan or custody agreement is a legal document that outlines how divorced or separated parents will care for and make decisions regarding their minor children. The Commonwealth does not use the term 'standard possession order' (SPO), which is more common in other states like Texas. Instead, Massachusetts law requires that parents submit a parenting plan in cases involving child custody. This plan should cover physical and legal custody arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and how the parents will resolve disputes. The parenting plan must be approved by the court and is designed to serve the best interests of the child. If parents cannot agree on a plan, the court may order mediation or appoint a Guardian ad Litem to represent the child's interests. Ultimately, the court may establish its own custody order if an agreement cannot be reached.