When couples with children divorce, they encounter the new legal term “joint custody.” But what exactly is joint custody?
It is a type of custody where both parents share equal responsibilities for the child’s life. Unlike sole custody, both parents are actively involved in the overall upbringing of a child or children in joint custody.
Types of Joint Custody
Let’s take a look at the different types of joint custody!
· Physical custody
In physical custody, parents have the right to keep the child with him or her. In addition, there is joint physical custody in which the child spends significant amounts of time with mother and father. This type of custody works best when parents live relatively close to each other. Also, it allows children to maintain equal relations with their parents.
On the other hand, when the child lives primarily with one parent, the other regularly visits the child.
· Legal custody
Legal custody means having the right to make decisions about a child’s life. Any parent with legal custody can make important decisions of a child’s life, including schooling, religion, medical care, and more.
If you share joint legal custody and exclude your ex-spouse from the decision-making process, he or she can take you back to court.
Pros of Joint Custody
- A child can enjoy the benefit of living with both father and mother regularly. He or she will not miss the love of any parent as they can live with the child every day.
- Each parent has the equal right to the child and can enjoy equal time with their kids.
- When parents move to a new location, the child can make new friends and play with them as well.
- Neither you nor your ex-spouse will be a visitor to a child’s life. You both will be equal parents for your child.
- Children will become more responsible for their things and you can teach child ways to spend money as well.
- The child will have a chance to spend time with extended families from the sides of both parents.
- You will get help as well as support in raising your child in joint custody.
Cons of Joint Custody
- The child will need to adjust to a new location for part of life.
- Packing and unpacking while switching homes can be stressful for the child.
- For some families joint physical custody does not work in an appropriate way.
What Are The Requirements For Joint Custody?
According to some experts, joint custody is less traumatic for children because they have the chance to live with both parents. On the other hand, shared custody is not suitable for most families, and both parents need to maintain a cordial relationship in it.
Keep in mind that the family court is not able to set every scenario of the family that is separated. To make joint custody work, both parents will need to agree on the best things for their child’s life and wellbeing.
For parents who want to win joint custody, consider the following:
- Communication – If possible, have good communication with each other about the custody arrangements. This helps with a better transition for children in joint custody.
- Obtain the services of an attorney – An attorney is the best friend of parents that helps in winning joint custody. So, if you wish to win custody, it is better to go for the best attorney service or hire divorce lawyer in your area.
- Ask questions – If you cannot understand anything during the court hearing, you should ask questions. A parent’s attorney can help you answer initial questions of joint custody.
All in all, to win joint custody, speak with a qualified attorney in your state now!
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