Raising children when you aren’t involved with the other parent isn’t always easy. These cases are typically governed by a parenting plan that outlines how various situations will be handled. One of the situations that might be covered is what happens if the parent who has the child needs childcare.
Some parenting plans have a clause that’s known as the right of first refusal. This means that if there are specific points present, the parent who has the children has to give the other parent the option of taking the children for the time childcare is needed.
Why is the right of first refusal necessary?
The right of first refusal is an opportunity to allow the parents and children more time with each other instead of relying on outside childcare. Even if the time together isn’t very long, it’s a chance for the children and parent who they aren’t staying with at the time to connect.
When does right of first refusal apply?
The exact terms of when this must occur should be outlined in the parenting plan. It’s typically set up so that there are a minimum number of childcare hours needed in order for the parent who has the children to ask the other parent if they want to care for them. The parent who’s being asked if they want to take care of the children should give the other parent an answer quickly so they can find another option if necessary.
The right of first refusal is only one of the terms that must be included in the parenting plan. Working with someone who’s familiar with these matters may help you to ensure that everything applicable is included.