The Truth About Joint Custody
Most couples that get a divorce tend to argue over child custody. Just because they’re getting a divorce doesn’t mean they no longer love their children. Once we become used to their presence in our everyday lives, it can be difficult living without them. In the Victorian era and before, while wives and children were both considered property of the husband, there was never any question of child custody; however, the pendulum swung in favor of the mother. Now it is gradually moving to a fairer option which is known as joint custody.
Parents that have joint custody will need to share time with their kids. This time does not need to be split evenly, and the split is usually geared towards more time with the mother, but it gives visitation rights to each parent.
The courts can either order a joint custody agreement or the parents can come to the conclusion themselves. Usually the court will designate one parent as primary residence for the child and the other as secondary. In most cases, the judges orders the mother to be the primary parent, but in some cases, it’s the father.
Once the court has established joint custody, it will set up a visitation schedule unless the couple is able to work out one on their own. This schedule usually has the secondary parent receiving visitation rights every other weekend and rotating holidays. Even and odd-numbered years form the basis for the rotating holidays. In even numbered years, for example, the father may get Thanksgiving with the child. The mother would have the child during odd numbered years for the holiday. This would also be the case for various other holidays.
The couple or the courts may also decide to make a 50/50 custody agreement in which the child’s time is shared equally. Each parent would get to spend one week with the child. This can be arranged if the parents live close enough to each other and the child’s school to make the exchange easy. The parent would need to ensure that the child attends school and all necessary appointments during their visitation time. While staying with the parent, he or she will need to provide the child with all necessary food and clothing.Doc No.azlcssaeh-sdgfhkl
Kristie Brown writes on a variety of topics from health to technology. Check out her websites on stop my divorce and stop divorce