As divorced parents sit down to create the child custody schedule for their parenting plan, they usually need a reference point for what types of schedules are possible. Looking at examples of schedules that other parents commonly use can help them narrow down the options for finding the right schedule for their situation. Here are some examples of joint and sole custody schedules that are typically used.
Examples of Joint Custody Schedules
More and more states are making joint custody the default when parents separate. This means that the mother and father need to make a joint custody schedule for their children. A joint custody schedule doesn't mean that the parents each get exactly fifty percent of the time with the children. Instead, it means that both parents have adequate parenting time to be involved with the children.
The basic joint custody schedule is parents alternating weeks of custody. This is pretty much a fifty-fifty split for parents who think their children will do well with this type of schedule. Parents can add variety to this schedule by adding visits to the other parent when a parent has custody. For example, the mother can have a visit on Wednesday night when the father has custody, and the father has a visit on Thursday night when the mother has custody.
Parents can also divide the week in half. There are a few example child custody schedules of this type. Parents can choose to have a 5/5/2/2 split or a 3/3/4/4 split. In these situations, the child spends five or three days with one parent, spends five or three days with the other parent, spends two or four days with the first parent, and then spends two or four days with the second parent. This is a lot of exchanges, so the mother and father should make sure it works for the child.
Another common joint schedule is the parents simply being generous with the parenting time. Many times, the child will still live with one parent and go and spend frequent time with the other parent. The schedule may change during the child's school breaks to allow the other parent more time with the child.
Sample Sole Custody Schedules
The most common sole custody schedule is variations on the weekend schedule. The basic weekend schedule is when the children live with one parent and visit the other parent every weekend. The schedule can be modified so the children visit every other weekend, have visits during the week, have overnight visits during the week, etc.
The most important factor to consider when investigating and choosing a custody schedule is the child's best interest. Generally, it is best for the child to have enough time with both parents to continue a strong relationship. The parents can choose to have a joint custody schedule or a sole custody schedule based on weekends depending on what is best for the child. The mother and father can modify these schedules to fit the child's needs.
For additional information, see Making a Complete Child Visitation Schedule.
Rosemary Peters - I have studied family law extensively with a focus on child custody issues and matters. I love to share the information I've learned about ...
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