A reader writes:
My soon to be ex-husband and I have three children. I am hearing about some sort of “parenting plan” that we’ll have to come up with. What is this? Can we mediate this? What will be the charge to us? Thank you for your help.
Kris responds:
This is a new term for recently passed legislation in Texas and other states amending the family code and can be researched more independently at the below link:
In answer to your other questions:…yes, it is most advisable that you mediate a parenting plan. Only in a mediation can you and your husband direct your own best efforts in determining what will be in the best interest of your children based on your values, resources and logistics. You can use private mediators listed in the phone book or one of the volunteer family mediators at The Dispute Resolution Center. There are 17 centers throughout Texas and a list can be found on this website: www.austindrc.org You didn’t say where you live, but you can contact our center for help in locating community mediation services throughout the nation and the costs for the service. A typical community mediation for Travis County citizens is $35.00 per person or $70 for a couple. Our number is 512-371-0033×222.