CCRC - How to Prepare for and Achieve Success
If the parents are unable to agree on a custody arrangement, they are required to undergo Child Custody Recommending Counseling (commonly known as CCRC) before the court may issue orders.
Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC): What to Expect and How to Prepare for Your Appointment
If the parents are unable to agree on a custody arrangement, they are required to undergo Child Custody Recommending Counseling (commonly known as CCRC) before the court may issue orders.
Child custody disputes can be emotionally taxing for parents, and it is crucial that they approach the Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC) process with an open mind and a willingness to collaborate. CCRC’s principal objective is to produce a custody arrangement that suits the children’s best interests, not to take sides or advocate for one parent over the other.
Collaboration and planning are essential for success
Parents that are willing to collaborate and consider each other’s opinions are more likely to experience success in CCRC. The counselor’s role is to assist parents in developing a custody arrangement that effectively addresses the needs, schedules, and well-being of their children. Hence, parents must arrive at the CCRC with a thorough grasp of their children’s needs, including education, extracurricular activities, medical needs, and any other relevant considerations.
The Importance of Honesty and Transparency
To ensure a successful outcome in CCRC, parents must be transparent and forthcoming about any concerns or issues that may impact the custody plan. This includes concerns about the other parent’s ability to provide suitable care, communication or cooperation issues, or any other pertinent factors. Being honest about these concerns allows parents to work collaboratively with the counselor to find solutions that create a feasible and effective plan.
Prioritizing the Best Interests of the Children in Child Custody Recommending Counseling
It is also essential to place the needs of children above personal preferences or wishes. CCRC is aimed to produce a custody arrangement that is in the children’s best interests, not the parents’. Hence, it is essential to prioritize what is best for the children and to strive towards a solution that benefits all parties.
To sum it up, the process of CCRC can be a daunting and emotional experience for parents. However, approaching the process with an open mind, a willingness to cooperate, and a focus on the children’s needs can lead to a successful outcome. By coming to CCRC prepared with a comprehensive understanding of their children’s needs, being transparent and forthcoming about concerns or issues, and prioritizing the children’s needs, parents can create a custody plan that serves the best interests of their children.
Tips for Successful CCRC
Create a Good Impression:
Dress in professional attire. Consider this an employment interview for your children. Cover your tattoos if you have them. Remove your earplugs if you have them. Create the best possible first impression by presenting yourself in the best possible manner.
Keep it Simple:
Do not bring any documents or pictures with you into the room.
Have a Plan:
Go into CCRC with a specific plan. Be able to state what days and times you will have the children. Be able to tell the mediator who will do the driving and how the exchanges will occur.
Be prepared to describe what you will do if the children are sick or you have an emergency when the children are in your care.
Focus on the Children:
Only discuss those issues related to your children. This is not a time to rehash the relationship. CCRC is about how you will share your children moving forward. All your comments should be made as though you are looking through the eyes of your children.
How do they feel? If the other side gets off topic, do not respond. Allow the mediator to redirect him or her.
Effective Communication During Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC) Mediation Sessions
Remember who you are talking to:
Speak directly to the mediator and maintain good eye contact. Do not look at or speak directly to the other party during the session.
Stay Calm:
The mediator will assess your body language. Avoid hand gestures. Watch your facial expressions. When someone else is talking, remain still and pretend you are a statue.
Watch your Wording:
Always refer to the children as “ours” not “mine.” When you discuss the children, begin with the phrase, “It is in our children’s best interest to…”
Wait Your Turn:
Allow the other party and the mediator to finish speaking before you respond.
Mind Your Manners:
Avoid the temptation to argue with or insult the other party. Watch your tone of voice when speaking.
Stick to the facts:
If you have concerns, be specific and factual, not insulting. Start by saying, “I am concerned because…” and then offer a “for instance.” Describe a specific event that illustrates your point.
If you are facing a child custody dispute, the Child Custody Recommending Counseling (CCRC) process can be a challenging and emotional experience. As dedicated and experienced family law attorneys, we can assist you in navigating this process and work towards a custody plan that serves the best interests of your children.
With our knowledge and assistance, you can confidently approach CCRC knowing that you have an advocate on your side who will fight for your parental rights. Every step of the process, from preparation to efficient communication during mediation sessions, we will be by your side.
Don’t face the CCRC process alone. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let’s work together to create a custody plan that is in the best interests of your children.
