Child custody is determined by the parents if they can come to an agreement. However, when they cannot reach an agreement, the court may have to decide who gets the children. The parents should discuss their views and determine what plan works for them. Joint custody could be the ideal solution.
What is Primary Custody?
Primary custody indicates what parent has the children for the majority of the time, and in sole custody arrangements, the primary parent makes all the decisions about the child. It is just another way to identify the custodial parent. The custodial parent doesn’t have visitation because they have the kids most of the time, and the other parent gets visitation according to the parenting plan. The children will attend school in the location where the primary or custodial parent lives.
Can Parents Get Creative with Parenting Time?
A Joint custody attorney can explain ideal parenting time arrangements for the parents. Typically, the custodial parent has the children most of the time, and the noncustodial parent has the kids every other weekend. However, all parents have the right to set up their own plans according to their needs and the needs of the children.
For example, if one of the parents travels often, they could make adjustments to visitation according to when they are in town. If a parent is in the military, their parenting time will depend on their family plan. Parents that live in the same city could also alternate weeks with the kids and be there more for their children.
Why Is Joint Custody Better?
A joint custody arrangement is ideal because it can give both parents equal time with the kids, and both parents make decisions about the children. Since both parents have custody of the kids, there is more versatility in planning the parenting time, and there isn’t a risk to the child. Typically, sole custody prevents extensive visitation, and supervised visitation is required. Joint custody could also decrease the amount of child support that is paid.
Can the Child Choose Where They Live?
Yes, children who are at least 12 years old can decide where they want to live. The parents must consider the wishes of their children when setting up a custody arrangement. If the relationship with either parent is strained, the child is less likely to choose to live with them. This doesn’t prevent the child or the aren’t from improving their relationship, but it will give the child a less hostile living environment and place their interests and well-being first.
Calculating Child Support
With joint custody, the income of both parents is considered. Some custody arrangements allow each parent to support the child while the child is in their home. However, most states require the noncustodial parent to provide child support since they do not have the child most of the time.
Child custody arrangements define what parent has the children a majority of the time and who makes the decisions. Parents who need help with child custody arrangements contact an attorney for assistance now.
