In Florida, court decisions about child custody, referred to as time-sharing, are made with the child’s best interests in mind. Florida courts usually determine time-sharing and parenting matters based on the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act. Ideally, parents should work together to develop a shared parenting plan.
Courts in Florida generally favor shared child custody, an arrangement that allows both parents to share decision-making and time with their child. This is also known as joint custody or co-parenting. However, it’s sometimes in the best interests of the child and family to deviate from a standard shared parenting plan.
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of shared custody to help you make the best decision for your child after divorce.
Advantages Of Shared Child Custody
Shared custody or a parenting plan that gives a child substantial time with both parents offers many benefits.
1. Supports a Strong Bond with Both Parents
Shared custody allows children to maintain strong relationships with both parents. This ongoing connection can reduce the emotional impact of divorce.
Research has shown that children in a shared custody arrangement tend to have fewer behavioral and emotional problems, better relationships with their family, and better performance in school than kids in a sole custody arrangement. A meta-analysis found that joint physical custody isn’t necessary to help kids remain well-adjusted. The most important thing is that they spend a substantial amount of time with both parents.
2. Balanced Parenting Responsibilities
This arrangement means both parents share daily child-rearing tasks and responsibilities. This prevents one parent from shouldering most of the duties. This balance can reduce stress, prevent burnout, and reduce conflict between parents.
3. Stable Environment for Children
Regular contact with both parents provides children with a sense of stability. This consistency can be beneficial for their emotional well-being. This strong connection with both parents means kids aren’t forced to adjust to radical changes. They will also not feel like they have lost a parent.
4. Positive Role Modeling
When parents cooperate in shared custody, it sets a positive example for children. They learn about effective communication and problem-solving by observing their parents.
Disadvantages Of Shared Child Custody
While shared parenting is best for kids when it works, there are some cases in which it’s not the best option for children. It also comes with certain drawbacks.
1. It May Lead to Increased Conflicts
Sometimes parents continue to engage in the same struggles they had while they were together. If parents have unresolved issues or poor communication, shared custody can be damaging. It may be a source of frequent arguments and stress. This can negatively affect children.
Therapy focused on healthy co-parenting or mediation may be helpful in these cases.
2. Inconsistency and Frequent Transitions Can Be Harmful
When children make frequent transitions between two homes, it can damage their sense of stability and security. This is worsened when there is inconsistency in parenting styles and differences in disciplinary methods or rules. This can be confusing and stressful for children and may lead to behavioral and emotional issues.
3. Logistics May Be Difficult
The logistics of transporting kids back and forth and coordinating schedules can be overwhelming. This may be stressful for kids and parents who are balancing work, activities, and other obligations.
Be sure to balance the time a child spends with each parent with work, school, and other priorities.
Factors to Consider Before Deciding
Here are important factors to weigh heavily as you decide on a parenting arrangement that best supports your child.
Abuse, Neglect, and Parental Fitness
Shared custody is not always in a child’s best interests. If one parent has a history of neglect, abuse, or substance abuse, shared custody may be harmful. It may be in the child’s best interests to have supervised visitation or less parenting time. Physical and mental health issues may also be a factor to consider.
Child’s Age and Needs
Younger children may find frequent transitions between homes challenging. Consider your child’s age, temperament, and specific needs when planning custody arrangements.
Parental Communication
Effective and respectful communication between parents is crucial. Without it, shared custody can become problematic and even harmful.
Proximity of Homes
Living close to each other can make shared custody more manageable. It reduces travel time and helps maintain the child’s routine.
Work Schedules
Parents’ work commitments can impact their availability. An effective parenting plan should accommodate both parents to avoid unnecessary stress.
Financial Considerations
Shared custody might affect child support arrangements. In some cases, equal parenting time can reduce or eliminate child support payments. This may be beneficial, but it also has the potential to leave children without adequate financial support.
Tips for Successful Shared Custody
Here are some final tips to help you enjoy a healthy and successful shared custody plan:
- Develop a detailed parenting plan. It should outline how decisions will be made and specific schedules. It should also have guidelines for certain situations like illness or overtime work.
- Make open communication a priority. Consider using a co-parenting app or shared calendar.
- A strong co-parenting relationship requires compromise and flexibility to handle unpredictable situations.
- Mediators and therapists specializing in co-parenting and communication can help you resolve any conflicts and be better parents together.
A shared child custody arrangement is a major decision that requires careful consideration. By weighing the pros and cons and focusing on the best interests of your child, you can make an informed decision that benefits your entire family.
If you need assistance with child custody or other family law matters, Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC is here to help you. Schedule a free consultation with an Orlando family law attorney to discuss your issues and get the guidance you need.
Contact the Orlando Child Custody Law Firm of Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, for Help Today
For more information, contact our experienced Orlando child custody lawyers at Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC, by calling (407) 831-0203 to schedule a free consultation.
We serve all through Orange County and its surrounding areas. Visit our office at:
Conti Moore Law Divorce Lawyers, PLLC
815 N Magnolia Ave Suite 100
Orlando, FL 32803
(407) 831-0203
