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Parenting Plan

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Parenting Plan

Superior Court of Washington

County of

In re the Parenting and Support of:

Child(ren)

Petitioner

and

Respondent

No.

This parenting plan is:

Proposed (PPP)

Temporary (PPT)

Final Order (PP)

[ ] the final parenting plan signed by the court pursuant to a judgment and order establishing Residential Schedule/Parenting Plan/Child Support entered on

[ ] the final parenting plan signed by the court pursuant to an order entered on which modifies a previous parenting plan or custody decree.

[ ] a temporary parenting plan signed by the court.

[ ] proposed by

It is Ordered, Adjudged and Decreed:

I. General Information

This parenting plan applies to the following children:

Name

Age

II. Bases for Restrictions

Under certain circumstances, as outlined below, the court may limit or prohibit a parent’s contact with the child(ren) and the right to make decisions for the child(ren).

2.1 Parental Conduct (RCW 26.09.191(1), (2))

Does not apply.

The mother’s father’s residential time with the child(ren) shall be limited or restrained completely, and mutual decision-making and designation of a dispute resolution process other than court action shall not be required because this parent a person residing with this parent has engaged in the conduct which follows:

Willful abandonment that continues for an extended period of time or substantial refusal to perform parenting functions.

Physical, sexual or a pattern of emotional abuse of a child.

A history of acts of domestic violence or an assault or sexual assault which causes grievous bodily harm or the fear of such harm.

2.2 Other Factors (RCW 26.09.191(3))

Does not apply.

The mother’s father’s involvement or conduct may have an adverse effect on the child’s best interests because of the existence of the factors which follow:

Neglect or substantial nonperformance of parenting functions.

A long-term emotional or physical impairment which interferes with the performance of parenting functions.

A long-term impairment resulting from drug, alcohol, or other substance abuse that interferes with the performance of parenting functions.

The absence or substantial impairment of emotional ties between the parent and child.

The abusive use of conflict by the parent which creates the danger of serious damage to the child’s psychological development.

A parent has withheld from the other parent access to the child for a protracted period without good cause.

III. Residential Schedule

The residential schedule must set forth where the child(ren) shall reside each day of the year, including provisions for holidays, birthdays of family members, vacations, and other special occasions, and what contact the child(ren) shall have with each parent.

3.1 Schedule for Children Under School age.

There are no children under school age.

Prior to enrollment in school, the child(ren) shall reside with the mother father, except for the following days and times when the child(ren) will reside with or be with the other parent:

from to

every week every other week the first and third week of the month the second and fourth week of the month other:

from to

every week every other week the first and third week of the month the second and fourth week of the month other:

3.2 School Schedule

Upon enrollment in school, the child(ren) shall reside with the mother father, except for the following days and times when the child(ren) will reside with or be with the other parent:

from to

every week every other week the first and third week of the month the second and fourth week of the month other:

from to

every week every other week the first and third week of the month the second and fourth week of the month other:

The school schedule will start when each child begins kindergarten first grade other:

3.3 Schedule for Winter Vacation

The child(ren) shall reside with the mother father during winter vacation, except for the following days and times when the child(ren) will reside with or be with the other parent:

3.4 Schedule for Other School Breaks

The child(ren) shall reside with the mother father during other school breaks, except for the following days and times when the child(ren) will reside with or be with the other parent:

3.5 Summer Schedule

Upon completion of the school year, the child(ren) shall reside with the mother father, except for the following days and times when the child(ren) will reside with or be with the other parent:

Same as school year schedule.

Other:

3.6 Vacation With Parents

Does not apply.

The schedule for vacation with parents is as follows:

3.7 Schedule for Holidays

The residential schedule for the child(ren) for the holidays listed below is as follows:

With Mother

(Specify Year Odd/Even/Every)

With Father

(Specify Year Odd/Even/Every)

New Year’s Day

Martin Luther King Day

Presidents’ Day

Memorial Day

July 4th

Labor Day

Veterans’ Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

For purposes of this parenting plan, a holiday shall begin and end as follows:

Holidays which fall on a Friday or a Monday shall include Saturday and Sunday.

Other:

3.8 Schedule for Special Occasions

The residential schedule for the child(ren) for the following special occasions (for example, birthdays) is as follows:

Other:

3.9 Priorities Under the Residential Schedule

Does not apply.

If the residential schedule results in a conflict, the conflict shall be resolved by priority being given as follows:

school schedule (3.1, 3.2) vacation with parents (3.6)

winter vacation (3.3) holidays (3.7)

school breaks (3.4) special occasions (3.8)

summer schedule (3.5)

Other:

3.10 Restrictions

Does not apply because there are no limiting factors in paragraphs 2.1 or 2.2.

The mother’s father’s residential time with the children shall be limited because there are limiting factors in paragraphs 2.1 and 2.2. The following restrictions shall apply when the children spend time with this parent:

There are limiting factors in paragraph 2.2, but there are no restrictions on the mother’s father’s residential time with the children for the following reasons:

3.11 Transportation Arrangements

Transportation costs are included in the Child Support Worksheets and/or the Order for Child Support and should not be included here.

3.12 Designation of Custodian

The children named in this parenting plan are scheduled to reside the majority of the time with the mother father.

This parent is designated the custodian of the child(ren) solely for purposes of all other state and federal statutes which require a designation or determination of custody.

3.13 Other

3.14 Summary of RCW 26.09.430 - 480, Regarding Relocation of a Child

This is a summary only. For the full text, please see RCW 26.09.430 through 26.09.480.

If the person with whom the child resides a majority of the time plans to move, that person shall give notice to every person entitled to court ordered time with the child.

IV. Decision Making

4.1 Day to Day Decisions

Each parent shall make decisions regarding the day-to-day care and control of each child while the child is residing with that parent. Either parent may make emergency decisions affecting the health or safety of the children.

4.2 Major Decisions

Major decisions regarding each child shall be made as follows:

Education decisions mother father joint

Non-emergency health care mother father joint

Religious upbringing mother father joint

mother father joint

mother father joint

mother father joint

mother father joint

mother father joint

4.3 Restrictions in Decision Making

Does not apply because there are no limiting factors in paragraphs 2.1 and 2.2 above.

Sole decision making shall be ordered to the mother father for the following reasons:

There are limiting factors in paragraph 2.2, but there are no restrictions on mutual decision making for the following reasons:

V. Dispute Resolution

The purpose of this dispute resolution process is to resolve disagreements about carrying out this parenting plan.

Disputes between the parties, other than child support disputes, shall be submitted to

counseling by , or

mediation by , or

arbitration by .

The cost of this process shall be allocated between the parties as follows:

mother father.

based on each party’s proportional share of income from line 6 of the child support worksheets.

as determined in the dispute resolution process.

The dispute resolution process shall be commenced by notifying the other party by written request certified mail other:

No dispute resolution process, except court action is ordered.

VI. Other Provisions

There are no other provisions.

There are the following other provisions:

VII. Declaration for Proposed Parenting Plan

Does not apply.

(Only sign if this is a proposed parenting plan.) I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the state of Washington that this plan has been proposed in good faith and that the statements in Part II of this Plan are true and correct.

Mother

Date and Place [City and State] of Signature

Father

Date and Place [City and State] of Signature

VIII. Order by the Court

It is ordered, adjudged and decreed that the parenting plan set forth above is adopted and approved as an order of this court.

Warning: Violation of residential provisions of this order with actual knowledge of its terms is punishable by contempt of court and may be a criminal offense under RCW 9A.40.060(2) or RCW 9A.40.070(2). Violation of this order may subject a violator to arrest.

When mutual decision making is designated but cannot be achieved, the parties shall make a good faith effort to resolve the issue through the dispute resolution process.

If a parent fails to comply with a provision of this plan, the other parent’s obligations under the plan are not affected.

Dated:

Judge/Commissioner

Presented by:

Print or Type Name

Approved for entry:

Print or Type Name

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What a Parenting Plan Is and When It Applies

A Parenting Plan is a written agreement that allocates parenting time, decision-making authority, and related responsibilities for one or more children after separation, divorce, or when parents are not living together. It typically covers custody (legal and physical), a detailed visitation schedule, holiday and travel arrangements, methods for resolving disputes, and procedures for exchanging records such as medical and school information. When incorporated into a court order the Parenting Plan becomes enforceable by the family court in the relevant state; outside court it serves as a clear reference for parents, mediators, and attorneys during negotiations and dispute resolution.

Why a Clear Parenting Plan Matters

A well-drafted Parenting Plan reduces uncertainty, sets enforceable expectations when adopted by a court, and helps minimize conflict by documenting schedules, decision processes, and responsibilities in one place.

Why a Clear Parenting Plan Matters

Who Typically Creates and Uses a Parenting Plan

Parenting Plans are prepared and used by parents, family law attorneys, mediators, and court personnel to document custody and visitation terms.

  • Divorcing parents seeking formal custody and visitation terms to present to the court or to agree privately before filing.
  • Unmarried or separated co-parents who want a documented schedule and responsibilities without immediate litigation.
  • Attorneys and mediators preparing structured, court-ready language to expedite hearings or settlement negotiations.

The document guides day-to-day parenting logistics and serves as the basis for temporary or final court orders when submitted to family court.

Core Sections to Include in a Professional Parenting Plan

A comprehensive Parenting Plan groups related provisions so each parent and the court can quickly locate schedules, decision rules, and enforcement mechanisms.

Custody Schedule

Define legal custody (decision-making) and physical custody (where the child resides). Include primary residence, residential schedule, and any phased transition plans for younger children.

Visitation / Exchanges

Set regular weekday and weekend time, pick-up/drop-off locations, transportation responsibilities, and late-arrival procedures to reduce confusion at exchanges.

Holidays & Travel

Specify holiday rotation, vacation notice periods, travel permissions, ID and passport rules, and procedures for out-of-state or international travel.

Decision-Making

Allocate authority for education, health care, religious upbringing, and emergency decisions; supply tie-breaking methods for disputes over major choices.

Expenses & Support

Describe responsibility for ordinary and extraordinary medical, educational, and extracurricular expenses and how receipts are submitted and reimbursed.

Dispute Resolution

Include mediation or parenting coordinator clauses, temporary emergency procedures, and when the plan may be modified or returned to court for enforcement.

Step-by-Step: How to Complete a Parenting Plan

Follow a structured sequence so the plan is accurate, clear, and ready for court or parental use.

  • 01
    Draft: Assemble facts, schedules, and names before filling fields.
  • 02
    Review: Have both parents and counsel check wording and dates.
  • 03
    Sign: Obtain signatures, dates, and any required notarization.
  • 04
    File: Submit to family court or retain for private enforcement as appropriate.

Online Workflow Settings for Digital Completion

Configure document routing, authentication, and field validation before sending the Parenting Plan for signatures.

Field Configuration
Signer Order Sequential | Parent A then Parent B
Authentication Email OTP | SMS code or KBA optional
Required Fields Signatures, dates, child names | Mark as mandatory
Audit Trail Capture IP, timestamp, and completion certificate

Where to File, Send, or Serve the Parenting Plan

Determine whether the plan is a private agreement or will be entered as a court order; filing routes differ accordingly.

  • Family Court Filing: File with the county family court clerk where the case is active.
  • Mediation Submission: Provide plan to mediator before hearing to support negotiated terms.
  • Attorney Exchange: Share finalized version via counsel for review and filing.
  • Service to Other Parent: Serve per local rules if filing with court; retain proof of service.

Digital Delivery and File Formats to Consider

Use standard, non-editable formats and secure delivery channels when exchanging Parenting Plans electronically.

  • File Formats: PDF or PDF/A preferred for court; DOCX useful for edits.
  • Integrations: Sync with Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 for records.
  • Authentication: Use audit trails and multi-factor for signer verification.

Ensure chosen platform preserves an immutable audit trail and produces a downloadable signed copy for both parents and the court.

Common Timing Considerations and Court Deadlines

Timing for filing, hearings, and temporary orders varies by state and court; plan ahead for local scheduling and required notices.

Temporary Orders Hearing:

Often scheduled within 30–90 days after filing; local court calendars determine exact timing.

Mediation Deadlines:

Mediation typically occurs before final hearing; courts may require attendance within a set window.

Notice for Relocation:

Most states require advance written notice and permission or a relocation hearing.

Requesting Modifications:

File a motion with the court; some jurisdictions require 6–12 months of changed circumstances.

Filing with Final Decree:

Attach Parenting Plan to divorce decree or custody order for enforceability.

Key Milestones from Draft to Court Order

A typical Parenting Plan proceeds through drafting, negotiation, court submission, and implementation stages.

01

Draft the Plan

Create a complete draft covering schedules, decisions, and dispute clauses.

02

Negotiate or Mediate

Parents and counsel refine terms, often using mediation before court.

03

File with Court

Submit final plan as part of the custody/divorce filing or post-judgment motion.

04

Implement and Monitor

Begin exchanges per schedule; document issues and follow dispute-resolution steps.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing a Parenting Plan

  • Using vague timing language such as 'weekends as agreed' which creates disputes and invites court interpretation.
  • Failing to include exact addresses, pickup locations, or transportation arrangements, leading to misunderstandings at exchanges.
  • Omitting contingency plans for illness, school closures, or unforeseen travel which forces emergency court intervention.
  • Not confirming whether notarization, witnesses, or court signatures are required in your jurisdiction before filing.

Risks and Consequences of an Incorrect or Incomplete Plan

Unenforceable Terms: Court may refuse vague provisions
Court Rejection: Filing could be returned for correction
Delay in Orders: Ambiguity can prolong hearings
Increased Costs: Additional attorney and court fees
Violation Findings: Noncompliance can lead to sanctions
Relocation Risk: Mover may need court approval

Essential Data Fields to Include in the Parenting Plan

Child Details: Full name, birthdate
Parent Details: Full legal names, contact
Addresses: Street, city, state, ZIP
Schedules: Days, times, exchange points
Decision Roles: Education, health, religion
Signatures: Signed and dated by parties

Pricing and Feature Snapshot for eSignature Vendors

Compare starting prices and common feature availability for eSignature vendors; signNow is listed first per comparison convention.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial, no credit card Varies by vendor Varies by vendor Varies by vendor Varies by vendor
Bulk Send Yes Yes Yes Yes Varies
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes Yes Yes No No
Envelope Cap No envelope cap 100 envelopes/user/year Varies by plan Varies by plan Varies by plan

Real-World Examples of Document Workflows

These anonymized excerpts show how organizations use electronic signing and clear templates to manage family law documents and approvals.

Optica Ventures — Brian Fitzgibbons

The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team and clients.

  • Quick adoption by mobile users improved turnaround.
  • Using consistent templates reduced back-and-forth and helped the firm present court-ready Parenting Plans efficiently while preserving audit logs.

Fertility Centers — John Butler

The API integration allowed automated delivery of documents to patients and staff.

  • Integration reduced manual handling and error.
  • Centralized signed storage and audit trails simplified compliance reviews and ensured consistent retention across cases.

Practical Guidance for Accurate, Enforceable Parenting Plans

Adopt clear language, consistent formats, and checklists to reduce friction and the need for future court intervention.

Use precise schedule language
Write specific start and end times, locations, and handoff details. Avoid subjective terms and include contingencies for holidays and school closures to minimize disputes and judicial interpretation.
Document decision authorities
List domains of decision-making (education, health, travel) and include a tie-breaker process. Clear allocation reduces emergency disputes and provides standards for mediators and judges.
Include dispute resolution
Add mediation or parenting coordinator clauses with defined timelines and steps before returning to court; this often shortens conflict cycles and lowers litigation costs.
Preserve signed records
Maintain signed originals and digital copies with audit trails. Ensure all parties have identical final versions to avoid enforcement issues and confirm retention schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions About Parenting Plans

Answers address common legal, procedural, and e-signature questions encountered when preparing and filing Parenting Plans.


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