SECTION 22 AGREEMENT
Also known as a Parental Responsibilities and Rights Agreement, a Section 22 (of the Children's Act) Agreement is an agreement between the biological parents of a child and other family members or parties where the holders of parental rights and responsibilities agree to share those rights and responsibilities with other parties with an interest in the care, development and well-being of the child/children.
WHAT IS IT?
Depending on the circumstances, whether the agreement is made with Grandma and Grandpa, or Auntie and Uncle, these agreements are very similar to Parenting Plans. Usually, in cases of unmarried parents, there is one primary caregiver and one non-primary caregiver. With a Section 22 Agreement, we are essentially adding non-primary caregivers. The agreement could entail a structured contact agreement - holidays divided between the primary caregiver and Grandma and Grandpa, for example, or the additional parties become involved with maintenance payments.