Building a parenting agreement that works : child custody agreements step by step

Avoid custody battles -- save time, money and grief

Working out a fair and realistic child custody agreement is one of the most difficult tasks for parents going through a divorce or separation. Building a Parenting Agreement That Works is the only book to show separating or divorcing parents how to overcome obstacles and create win-win custody agreements.

A professional mediator, author Mimi Lyster sets out 40 issues separating parents typically face, and presents all the options to resolving them. The book walks you through all the factors you must consider, including:

medical care
education
religious training
living arrangements
holidays
money issues
dealing with changes in an existing agreement
how to handle new partners
working with professionals

The updated edition includes checklists and worksheets to help you complete the custody agreement, and provides the current custody laws of your state. It also contains new information on "moveaway" laws. All forms are now downloadable at nolo.com

Taking stock of your situation -- An introduction to parenting agreements -- Getting organized -- How to negotiate a parenting agreement -- Building your agreement -- Basic elements -- More parenting issues -- Serious situations -- Special challenges -- Child support, alimony, and jointly owned property -- Making mediation and arbitration work for you -- Making changes -- Understanding your children's needs -- Multiracial, multicultural, and international families -- Nontraditional families -- State and federal laws affecting child custody -- Help beyond the book.