The term “joint custody” refers to a shared custody agreement between divorced parents of minor children. Joint physical custody is an arrangement in which parents both spend substantial time with their children (though not necessarily equal), while joint legal custody is when both parents share the power to make important decisions regarding their children’s upbringing.
The standard for courts in determining custody arrangements is to develop an arrangement that is in the best interests of the child. Does this mean courts will prefer joint custody arrangements?
The answer is that it really depends on the situation. Having both parents as part of a child’s life is considered the healthiest option when feasible, but there are some circumstances in which joint custody might not be appropriate. For example, joint physical custody is inappropriate if there is significant physical distance between the parents, and joint legal custody is inappropriate if one parent is determined incapable of parenting or a danger to the child.
Pros and cons
Consider the following pros and cons of joint custody.
- Pros
- The child is able to grow up and be influenced by both of their parents
- Parents both make mutual decisions about the child’s life and can take an active role in the child’s upbringing
- The child gives the divorced couple common ground, which can help them improve communication and reduce friction
- The parents share the burden associated with raising a child
- Cons
- It can be stressful for kids to go back and forth between homes
- In some cases, it can create more issues for divorced parents to fight over
- Parents who don’t communicate well might miss warning signs or needs of the children
For more information about whether joint custody is right for your situation, contact an experienced divorce lawyer in Minnesota at Appelhof, Pfeifer & Hart, P.A.
