There’s no easy way around it: going through a divorce is a challenging and emotional process. This is especially true when divorce proceedings involve child custody and support arrangements. 

Creating an amicable divorce agreement that prioritizes the wellbeing of your children is crucial, and by fully understanding the laws and guidelines surrounding child custody and support in Arkansas, you can work toward a fair and peaceful resolution that’s in the best interests of all parties involved.

Understanding the laws

In every state, child custody decisions are based on the best interests of the child. Familiarizing yourself with the state’s custody laws is essential. 

Arkansas recognizes two types of custody: legal custody, and physical custody. 

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, while physical custody determines where the child will live.

Developing a clear understanding of the differences between these two types of custody, and the factors that influence custody decisions, is crucial when working out an amicable and fair agreement.

Co-parenting, cooperation, and communication

Just like in most situations, open, clear, and effective communication is the key to reaching an agreement. Both parents should prioritize regular and respectful communication to discuss important matters related to the child’s wellbeing.

Maintaining a cooperative attitude, being flexible, and considering the child’s best interests can help to create a positive co-parenting environment, fostering stability and emotional support for your children– something that’s much more important than any other factor in the divorce.

Making a plan

A detailed parenting plan is essential to ensure a smooth transition and minimize conflicts. Your parenting plan should cover important things like visitation schedules, holidays and vacations, decision-making processes, and communication methods.

Clearly defining, and agreeing upon, these details in advance helps to reduce confusion and potential disagreements in the future.

Calculating child support

A complete understanding of the guidelines for calculating child support in Arkansas is crucial for reaching a fair agreement.

Arkansas uses an income-sharing model to determine child support, considering factors like each parent’s income, the number of children involved, healthcare expenses, and other financial factors.

Mediation and alternative dispute resolution

Mediation and alternative dispute resolution methods like arbitration can be used to resolve child custody and support matters amicably. Mediation allows you and your ex-spouse to work with a neutral third party to facilitate negotiations and reach mutually agreeable solutions. 

These methods often lead to satisfactory outcomes, since they promote open dialogue and cooperation while reducing conflict and potentially eliminating the need for court intervention.

Seeking professional guidance

Although it would be nice if all divorce proceedings could be handled amicably, or handled effectively during processes like mediation, the reality is that it’s just not always possible.

In situations where it’s difficult to foster open and respectful communication, or difficult to reach a decision regarding important things like child support and custody, it’s time to work with a licensed divorce attorney.

If you’re in the process of seeking a divorce and need legal representation, it’s time to give Davidson Law Firm a call. for over 40 years– we’re ready and qualified to help.