The parenting plan is a straightforward document that you will need to complete and send to us for the required documentation for a divorce between two US citizens, US military members, or SOFA Status Personnel with children on Okinawa.
Key Components of the Parenting Plan
Parental Authority
The initial questions involve assigning authority on various topics related to your children’s welfare, such as education, non-emergency healthcare, and other specific issues. These questions help clarify the responsibilities and decision-making processes post-divorce.
Sole Parental Responsibility
In addition to individual areas of authority, the plan includes a section for assigning overall Sole Parental Responsibility. This can streamline decision-making and provide clear guidelines for each parent’s role.
Communication Methods
You can specify how you and your ex-spouse will communicate about your children. Options include in-person meetings, telephone calls, text messages, emails, or written letters.
Time Sharing Schedule
Once you’ve addressed parental authority and communication methods, you’ll move on to the Time Sharing Schedule. This monthly schedule outlines how you will divide your time with the children. For example, one parent might have the children three days a week while the other has them four days, or one parent might only have weekends due to work commitments. This schedule is pre-decided and included in the parenting plan that we will provide to the Okinawa Family Court.
Legal Considerations
The Okinawa Family Court follows US state law, and all court orders are enforceable in the United States. Both Japan and the USA are part of the Hague Convention, an international legal framework that ensures legal documents are recognized in both countries.
Contact Us
If you have any questions about getting a divorce in Okinawa or need assistance with the parenting plan, please contact us anytime. We are here to help make this process as smooth and straightforward as possible.