Joint Custody – A Look at Common Issues

In many divorces, child custody is one of the top priorities as well as the greatest bone of contention. No matter how a couple may feel about each other, they both still love their children and want to be a part of their lives. 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. Since it's fairer for both parties, joint custody is commonly applied these days.

Parents that have joint custody will need to share time with their kids. Although the split isn't usually done right down the middle, the non-custodial parent usually gets adequate visitation rights.

The couple can decide between themselves to have a joint custody arrangement, or the courts can order one. One parent's home will be deemed secondary while the other is designated as the primary residence. In a few cases, the father is deemed to be the primary parent, but it's usually the mother.

The couple may be able to work out a visitation schedule on their own or a judge can come up with one. This schedule usually has the secondary parent receiving visitation rights every other weekend and rotating holidays. In the case of rotating holidays, the parents are assigned holidays based on even and odd-numbered years. The father could spend Thanksgiving with the child during even numbered years. For the holiday, the mother would have the child during odd numbered years. For other major holidays, it would be the same situation.

Some judges decide for an even time split. The child would spend one week with each parent. If the parent's homes are close enough to each other, this can be a great solution. The parent would need to ensure that the child attends school and all necessary appointments during their visitation time. Obviously, they will also need to provide clothing, food, and everything else the child needs to survive.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