Document background
The Parental Plan Agreement is a crucial legal document used in Belgium when parents separate or divorce and need to establish clear guidelines for co-parenting their children. It is designed to comply with Belgian family law, including the Civil Code and relevant EU regulations, particularly Brussels II bis. This document becomes necessary when parents need to formalize their arrangements regarding child custody, residence, education, healthcare, and financial responsibilities. It typically includes both mandatory elements required by Belgian law and customizable sections to address specific family circumstances. The agreement serves as a reference point for all child-related decisions and can be submitted to the court for approval, making it legally binding. While primarily used in divorce or separation contexts, a Parental Plan Agreement can also be useful for unmarried parents who wish to formalize their co-parenting arrangements. The document must prioritize the best interests of the child, as required by Belgian law and international conventions.
