1 March 2009 saw the introduction of the Act on the promotion of continued parenting and careful divorce planning . The aim of the legislation is to improve the position of children after divorce. Divorcing couples with minor children are required to draw up a joint parenting plan before the courts will hear their case. This forces the father and mother to set aside their personal frustrations for a while and put the interests of their children ahead of their own interests.

If there is no parenting plan, the courts will refuse the divorce or separation order. The plan must meet a number of minimum requirements. For example, it must provide for visitation, care, education and financial support. Parents also require permission from each other when making important decisions involving their children.

What does a parenting plan involve?

The plan may cover the following issues:
-    choice of school, e.g. state school or faith school. And details of who takes them and picks them up from school, and who pays for
     the costs, if any are incurred?
-    Membership of sports clubs and payment of membership fees.
-    Medical care and nursing.
-    Holiday arrangements, not just for the summer holidays, but also for Christmas and Easter.
-    Management of financial affairs, e.g. savings accounts. Will the parents continue to make annual payments?
-    Arrangements for the children's upbringing and day-to-day care.

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