When the parents of minor children divorce, there must be arrangements made. Child custody can be an emotional sticking point with a divorce. However, plans must be made, and to a lot of parents, shared custody seems like the fairest form of custody to have. To find out more about shared custody so that you can make an informed decision, read below.
What Is Shared Child Custody?
Shared custody refers to a parenting arrangement where both parents share the physical and legal custody of their child or children. In this type of custody, the child spends approximately equal amounts of time with both parents, and both parents are involved in making important decisions regarding the child's upbringing.
The specific details of shared custody arrangements can vary depending on the needs and preferences of the parents and the child. Some common arrangements include alternating weeks or weekends, dividing time equally during the week, or having the child spend weekdays with one parent and weekends with the other.
Advantages of shared custody
- Children benefit from having a relationship with both parents: Shared custody allows children to maintain a close relationship with both parents, which can be important for their emotional and psychological well-being.
- Shared responsibility: Both parents share the responsibility of raising the child, which can lead to more balanced decision-making and more consistent parenting.
- Reduced conflict: When both parents are involved in the child's life, it can reduce the level of conflict between them and decrease the likelihood of one parent feeling left out.
Disadvantages of shared custody
- Requires effective communication and cooperation: Successful shared custody arrangements require both parents to communicate effectively and cooperate with each other, which can be challenging if there is a history of conflict between them.
- Potential for disruption: The child may need to adjust to different living arrangements and routines, which can be disruptive to their life and routine.
- Can be difficult to manage logistics: It can be challenging for parents to coordinate schedules and transportation for the child, particularly if the parents live far apart.
Shared custody can be a beneficial arrangement for children and parents if both parties are committed to making it work and have a good working relationship. However, it may not be suitable in all situations, and parents should carefully consider the needs of the child and their own circumstances before agreeing to a shared custody arrangement. To find out more about this form of child custody and other choices, speak to a family law attorney.
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