NJ Parenting Plans And Rules Surrounding Phone Calls

Formal agreements between parents, New Jersey parenting plans outline the details of custody arrangements. While parents often first think of the nuts and bolts of the agreement, such as the custody schedule, there are other concerns that can be addressed in a NJ parenting plan as well, such as rules surrounding phone calls during the other parent’s parenting time.

Discussing your unique situation with a legal expert, such as a Bucks County family attorney, means you can access information about what is possible for you and your parenting agreement. For example, according to New Jersey law, non-custodial parents have the right to maintain regular contact with their children through phone calls, video calls, and other forms of communication. However, the exact details of these calls can vary.

Creating Guidelines for Contact

Every situation has its own concerns to review. If you are co-parenting with your ex and believe they are calling too much during your parenting time, outlining the frequency and duration of calls when children are with their other parent may be possible. Some plans may require daily calls, while others may only allow for weekly or bi-weekly communication. Additionally, the plan may outline specific times when phone calls can take place, such as before or after school, during dinner, or before bedtime, allowing for consistency and clarity.

In other families, guidelines for the content of phone calls and video chats need to be established. This could be true if the discussions tend to veer toward issues between the parents. It is in the best interests of the children to have conversations focused on their own wellbeing and development, not the issues of their parents.

Another factor to outline is how phone calls, video chats, and digital conversations are facilitated. In some cases, parents may agree to use a third-party service, such as a phone app, in order for scheduled calls to be standardized and, if needed, monitored. Some of these services provide a record of calls and have reminders in place to be sure they take place as scheduled.

Steps to Take When a Parent Does Not Comply

Once you have a well-crafted parenting plan in place, the rules need to be followed by the parents who agreed to the plan. If a parent does not comply with the rules within a NJ parenting plan, including those surrounding phone calls and communication, legal action could be pursued.

To talk through what is possible for you, including filing a motion to enforce the parenting plan or seeking a modification, make an appointment with a Bucks County family attorney,

Is establishing communication guidelines an area of dispute for you and your co-parent? Parenting plans can be drafted to address all of your concerns and smooth the process of co-parenting. Bring the facts of your case and your hopes for the future to the legal team at Kevin L. Hand, P.C. Then, skilled attorneys can strategize how to meet your objectives. To get started, book your no-cost consultation today, call 215-968-6602.