Is a 50/50 Custody Arrangement Right for My Family?
50/50 custody arrangements are those in which the children split time between the parents evenly. This arrangement is also known as shared physical custody. Physical custody describes where a child resides. When the child resides an equal or almost equal amount of time with both parents, we say the arrangement is a 50/50 custody or shared physical custody schedule. Such an arrangement is designed to ensure that both parents play a significant role in the child’s life.
In this article, the Philadelphia divorce lawyers at The Law Offices of Lauren H. Kane will discuss 50/50 custody arrangements and answer some key questions surrounding the custody schedule.
Legal requirements for a 50/50 custody arrangement
In some states, the courts operate on a presumption that a 50/50 custody arrangement is in the best interests of the children. However, Pennsylvania does not operate on this presumption. Nonetheless, a 50/50 custody arrangement can be awarded by the court or agreed to as part of a negotiated settlement. The arrangement is designed to ensure that both parents have significant involvement in their child’s life.
Benefits of shared physical custody
Unless there are documented instances of abuse, substance abuse, or other circumstances, Pennsylvania law presumes that it is in the child’s best interests to have both parents in their life. For this reason, the law disfavors terminating one parent’s parental rights. An equal custody arrangement offers several benefits. These include:
- Equal time – Shared physical custody ensures that both parents have a significant amount of quality time with their children, promoting a strong bond between both parents and the children.
- Shared responsibilities – Shared physical custody encourages both parents to actively participate in decision-making and caregiving.
- Stability for the children – The children will not have to adapt to a situation where they only see one parent every other weekend.
Cons of shared physical custody
Some research has shown that 50/50 custody arrangements—despite many benefits—can have a negative impact on the child as they grow older. The child grows up in two different households with two different sets of rules. For a child to thrive in a 50/50 custody arrangement, both parents must be on the same page when it comes to discipline and promote stability and consistency. Consistency is key to avoiding some of the pitfalls of a 50/50 custody arrangement.
Additionally, a 50/50 custody arrangement may not be appropriate for all families, especially in cases involving high conflict, domestic violence, or the unfitness of the parent. Further, both parents must have work schedules that facilitate such an arrangement. This may not be the case for all families.
Talk to a Philadelphia Family Law Attorney Today
The Law Offices of Lauren H. Kane represent the interests of Philadelphia residents who are drafting or modifying custody agreements. Call our Philadelphia family lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your goals and interests right away.
