After divorcing, parents often experience concern for the amount of time they will be able to spend with their child. Child custody can be an overwhelming process for parents who fear to lose the ability to continue developing a relationship with their child. But there are a number of different parenting plans available — 50/50 parenting plans allow parents to spend equal time with their children.
50/50 custody schedules can make easier the transition from marriage to divorce. Family law attorneys with Silverman and Mack, LLC can help guide you through the process of creating a custody plan that is fair to every member of the family. Contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation with our experienced attorneys in Gainesville, FL.
What Is A 50/50 Parenting Plan?
50/50 parenting plans are arrangements in which both parents are allowed to share equal parenting time with their child or children. This type of parenting plan is popular among divorced parents because it does not provide one parent with greater custody and the other parent with limited access to the child. When planned properly, 50/50 plans can be favorable, allowing each parent equal time to bond and strengthen their relationship with their child.
This equal time-sharing plan also allows the child to keep a close relationship with both parents. If you’re considering a 50/50 parenting plan, it’s important to contact an experienced divorce lawyer. We will help you ensure that the plan in place is the best custody schedule for all parties involved.
What Are The Requirements For A 50/50 Parenting Plan?
50/50 parenting plans aren’t approved for every divorced couple. This type of parenting plan typically requires more work from both parents than other child custody arrangements. What’s more, the court must decide whether a proposed plan is suitable for the dynamics of the family. Requirements to 50/50 parenting plans include the following.
- Each parent must be deemed stable by the courts in regard to emotional, physical, mental and environmental factors, which include stability of the living space
- Both parents are able to work together and put their differences aside for the benefit of the child, including sustaining regular communication
- Both parents can share time with the child with as little disruption to daily life as possible. The parents must live in close proximity to each other and the child’s school
- The custody schedule must be in the best interest of the child. If the court determines that this is not the case, a 50/50 parenting plan will be denied
What Are The Advantages To 50/50 Parenting Plans?
50/50 parenting plans can be a great option for parents who wish to spend an equal amount of time with their children. Consider the following benefits to an equal time-sharing plan.
- Maintenance of close child-parent relationships
- Both parents will be able to stay involved in the child’s life
- The child may feel equally loved and cared for by parents
- The child may not feel as if he or she must pick sides
- The parents will be able to share responsibility to the child
What Are The Disadvantages To 50/50 Parenting Plans?
Despite its benefits, equal time-sharing plans don’t work for every parent and/or child. Possible disadvantages to 50/50 parenting plans include the following. To determine which type of parenting plan best benefits your family, contact our Gainesville attorneys today.
- Possible complications for the child and between parents due to different parenting styles
- The child may be unable to adapt to the constant changes in switching between households
- Living in two separate homes may pose long-term anxiety and confusion to the child
