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Hear me now, believe me later:  While it is an overall good thing that Montana offers family law forms online, including a form parenting plan, don't be fooled by what looks "simple enough."  In good conscience, I cannot recommend you use the parenting plan form available online.  The form is not thorough enough to avoid many of the likely disagreements and problems between the parents and is too general to address the specific needs of your child(ren).  It is therefore recommended that you consult with an attorney experienced in drafting parenting plans to ensure the plan covers the bases in general and is more specific to your situation.

A parenting plan is a legally binding document that outlines the specific arrangements for the care, custody, and visitation of minor children when parents are separated, divorced, or unmarried. It addresses important aspects of parenting, such as decision-making authority, parenting time schedules, and communication between parents.  Attorney Paul Moses has handled countless cases involving parenting plans and would be happy to discuss your case and questions.  Call us at 406.630.3032.

Parents are encouraged to create a parenting plan together and reach a mutually agreeable arrangement. If parents cannot agree, the court may intervene and create a parenting plan based on the best interests of the child. It is generally recommended to consult with an attorney experienced in family law to ensure the plan meets legal requirements.

Yes, in Montana, a parenting plan is required for all cases involving child custody, whether it is a divorce, legal separation, or parenting time dispute. The court expects parents to create a comprehensive parenting plan that serves the best interests of the child.  Although a form for a parenting plan is available online in Montana, this form by and large does not represent a complete enough parenting plan that is likely to avoid problems in the future.  If you need a parenting plan, please contact an experienced attorney for help.

A parenting plan in Montana should cover various key elements, including a detailed schedule for parenting time, decision-making authority (legal custody), how parents will communicate and make important decisions regarding the child, provisions for transportation and exchange of the child, and any other specific matters related to the child's well-being.  Again, although a form for a parenting plan is available online in Montana, this form by and large does not represent a complete enough parenting plan that is likely to avoid problems in the future.  If you need a parenting plan, please contact an experienced attorney for help.

If a parent violates the terms of a parenting plan in Montana, the other parent can seek enforcement through the court. The court may take various actions to enforce the plan, such as modifying the plan, imposing fines, or holding the violating parent in contempt of court.

Yes, an existing parenting plan can be modified in Montana if there has been a significant change in circumstances or if it is in the best interests of the child. However, modifications generally require court approval, and it is advisable to consult with an attorney to understand the legal process and requirements. 

The court considers the best interests of the child as the primary factor when deciding whether to modify a parenting plan in Montana. Additionally, the court evaluates the reasons for the requested modification, the child's relationship with each parent, the child's needs, the ability of parents to cooperate, and any other relevant factors. 

If the other parent refuses to cooperate or agree to the proposed modifications, you can still file a motion with the court requesting the modification. The court will evaluate the situation and make a decision based on the child's best interests. 

No, but you can do your own brain surgery, too.  In either instance, the results will be the same:  bloody and irreversible.  So while you are not required to have an attorney, it is highly recommended to seek experienced legal representation if you have questions about or are interested in issues related to parenting plans.