Mediators are usually attorneys or therapists. Look under mediators or attorneys in the phone book. You can also call a DV shelter or women's center and get some info. They are experts is helping women (in all kinds of situations). Working with a therapist as a mediator is beneficial because they are training in child development and can make some recommendations about an appropriate schedule based on your DDs ages. I also recommend using the internet to do some research. Make sure you specify your state, as laws differ from state to state.
In terms of documentation - yes, document everything. Yes, every time you call and the time of day and what happened. It can get monotonous, but no one will accuse you of exaggerating when you say, "I tried to call my kids seven times today at various times of the day and no one answered the phone". or, "I've called my kids every day for five days and left messages and still have not talked to them."
I would also encourage you to do most of your communication with your X through email. Always BCC yourself. That way you have some written records through email.
In terms of your parenting plan, you can literally have anything written into it, including very specific dietary and medical requirements, rules about safe distances, and drop off times and locations. The sky is the limit. Remember, attorneys are "by the book" kinds of people, paid for knowing the law, not being creative. Just think of exactly what you want and need and propose it.
Hope that helps.
In terms of documentation - yes, document everything. Yes, every time you call and the time of day and what happened. It can get monotonous, but no one will accuse you of exaggerating when you say, "I tried to call my kids seven times today at various times of the day and no one answered the phone". or, "I've called my kids every day for five days and left messages and still have not talked to them."
I would also encourage you to do most of your communication with your X through email. Always BCC yourself. That way you have some written records through email.
In terms of your parenting plan, you can literally have anything written into it, including very specific dietary and medical requirements, rules about safe distances, and drop off times and locations. The sky is the limit. Remember, attorneys are "by the book" kinds of people, paid for knowing the law, not being creative. Just think of exactly what you want and need and propose it.
Hope that helps.
