What is the difference between a Parenting Plan and a Parent Order?
- Enforceability: Parenting plans are not enforceable by law, while parenting orders are.
- Flexibility: Parenting plans offer more flexibility and can be adjusted as needed, whereas parenting orders are harder to change.
What is a Parent Plan?
A parenting plan is a written agreement that is signed by both parents and outlines the agreed arrangements for the care of the children after separation or divorce.
The following are some of the things that you can include in a parenting plan:
- Where the children will live
- The time the children will spend with the other parent
- How long-term decisions will be made about the children’s education, health or religion
- International and interstate travel
- Child support or maintenance
- Extra-curricular activities for the children
Please note that a parenting plan is not a legally enforceable agreement, but it can be used as evidence in court if you need to apply for parenting orders in the future.
If you are struggling with co-parenting, I have information for you on how to make a co parenting plan.
What is a Parent Order?
On the other hand, Parenting orders are legal orders that are made by a court about children, which can cover the following:
- Who the children will live with
- The time the children will spend with each parent and with other people, such as grandparents
- The allocation of parental responsibility
- How the child will communicate with a parent they do not live with or other people
- Any other aspect of the care, welfare or development of the child
- The process to be used to sort out disagreements about the order later
- How persons with shared parental responsibility will communicate with each other
These orders are legally binding and can only be changed in limited circumstances.
If you want a more in-depth answer for what a parent order is. You can read everything you need to know with the the fundamentals of a parenting order.
To gain more insight into Parenting Plans and how they compare to other legal terms read these other articles
Parenting Plan vs Consent Orders
Confused about your options for parenting arrangements? Understand the key differences between Parenting Plans and Consent Orders to make the best choice for your family.
Parenting Order vs Custody
Not sure how Parenting Orders differ from custody arrangements? Discover how these terms impact your rights and responsibilities as a parent.
Parenting Plan vs Custody Agreement
Wondering how a Parenting Plan compares to a custody agreement? Explore the nuances to ensure you choose the right path for your children’s future.
