Five Provisions Every Parenting Plan Must Contain — and Why they Matter

Parenting plans drafted too quickly often look fine on the surface but fall apart when conflicts arise. California Family Code § 3048 requires specific findings—on jurisdiction, notice, custody rights, penalties, and habitual residence—to ensure clarity and enforceability. When these elements are missing or vague, parents face preventable disputes and enforcement problems, both in California and across state or national borders. A well-drafted parenting plan protects families by removing ambiguity before it becomes conflict.