According to Massachusetts laws, you and the other parent should consider the following factors when making decisions regarding the development of your parenting plan:
1. The child's wishes.
2. The parents wishes.
3. The child's education.
4. The child's health care.
5. Procedures for resolving disputes between the parties with respect to child-raising decisions and duties.
6. Possibility of shared or joint custody.
7. Visitation arrangements.
8. Past domestic abuse.
9. The best interests of the child.
The Massachusetts courts realize you and the other parent know your own situation better than anyone else, which is why this is your opportunity to create a parenting plan that will maintain a family structure that is in the best interests of your child(ren).