Parents can reach a custody or parenting agreement out-of-court -- usually with help from lawyers, counselors, or mediators -- through informal negotiation or alternative dispute resolution tools like mediation (typically as part of an overall divorce settlement).

• Working Together to Resolve Custody
• Creating a Parenting Agreement: Practical Steps
• Focusing on the "Best Interests" of the Child
• The Result: the Parenting Agreement
• Worksheet: Custody Visitation Schedule

Getting Help with the Parenting Agreement:

• Child Custody Mediation
• Collaborative Family Law
• Collaborative Family Law Resources