Child custody concerns are never simple. You and the other parent may have your child’s happiness as the ultimate goal, but it can be tough to make that a reality without working together.
Choosing appropriate co-parenting schedules can go a long way toward helping everyone better manage custody arrangements. There are some excellent schedule options that can allow you and the other parent to offer everything your child needs.
Knowing Your Options
Divorce lawyers recommend knowing about some of the most common options parents rely on when sharing custody.
2-2-3 Rotation
One of the most popular co-parenting schedules is the 2-2-3 rotation. The child would spend two days with parent one, two days with parent two, and a three-day weekend with parent one. The next week, parents would switch so that parent two gets the three-day weekend.
This is a good option for parents who live near one another and for children who adapt well to change while also needing to spend a lot of time with both parents. It’s important to note, however, that some children find the constant changing difficult, potentially leading to higher stress levels.
3-3-4-4 Rotation
The 3-3-4-4 co-parenting option allows children to spend three days with parent one, followed by three days with parent two. Then, they’d get four days back with parent one and four days with parent two. Being able to spend more time at each parent’s home can be a bit less disruptive. It will require keeping track of the schedule, however.
Alternating Weeks
A simplified option is alternating custody every week. This can be a good option for those who live a bit farther from one another. It’s important, however, to add a mid-week visit with the other parent if you have smaller children because not having access to them could prompt separation anxiety.
Some parents choose alternating week schedules with one overnight visit with the other parent. This can be a good option for smaller children, but it could be more disruptive for children who have after-school activities.
60/40 Splits
Some parents prefer the 60/40 split, which allows one parent to have the children for most of the week and the other parent to have them from Friday to Sunday. It’s a good option if one of the parents works long hours and can’t manage most weekdays.
Choosing The Right Schedule
Deciding on the right co-parenting schedule takes time and a careful assessment of your child’s needs and both parents’ work responsibilities. Along with child support issues, custody arrangements can be contentious, so it is best to work with an attorney who can guide you through the process.
A lawyer can help you put together a schedule that works well for everyone. Often, it takes some creativity to reach a fair arrangement during the divorce settlement, and that is something experienced legal counsel can provide.
Meeting Your Child’s Needs With Appropriate Co-Parenting Arrangements
The goal in crafting custody arrangements is to give your child exactly what they need. What that means depends on their age and unique personalities. The arrangements can also be flexible if both parents can work together. Flexibility ensures that as a child grows, they receive the time they need with each parent.
Going through a divorce and dealing with custody issues isn’t easy. It’s not something you should attempt without legal help. By having a lawyer by your side, it can be easier to find the best options for everyone.
Contact an Experienced Monmouth County [PRACTICE AREA] Attorney at The Law Office of Jennifer J. McCaskill, LLC for Legal Advice
To learn more and get the help you deserve, call our divorce & family law firm in Red Bank. NJ at (732) 747-1882 or contact us online today.
You can also visit our law firm at 157 Broad St #111, Red Bank, NJ 07701.
