It wasn’t long ago that it was almost considered a given that the mother would get primary custody after a divorce. The father then got to see his children either every other weekend or perhaps just occasionally on holidays. This arrangement was disadvantageous for both sides. Men who wanted more time with their kids didn’t get it, and women who didn’t want to give their kids up at the ex-husband’s beck and call often felt like they had no options.
Today there are many other options. When you go through a California divorce, you can create a custody agreement based on what works well for your situation and for your children. At Torrence L. Howell Attorney at Law, we want what’s best for the children involved and in many cases, that means shared custody. Read on to learn about this option and then reach out to us at 909-581-8390 to set up a free consultation.
Shared custody tries to even the playing field
In a shared custody agreement, parenting is split down the middle – or as close as possible. Many agree that this is what’s best for most children. In fact, child development experts, psychologists, and researchers say that it’s superior to the older models. But what makes it so good? And who does it work for and who doesn’t it work for?
Old and new methods have different starting points
In older custody agreement methods, it was assumed that one parent having primary custody would help to minimize the conflict the child had to experience. Shared custody focuses on another issue: The benefits of having both parents active in their lives outweighs the disadvantages. Research has shown that kids whose parents have shared custody do better in school, are more socially successful, and have a more optimistic outlook on their future.
This option isn’t right for everyone
While shared custody can make sense for many families, it’s not always the best option. For example, if both parents don’t live within a half an hour of each other, then it can be difficult or impossible to have this kind of shared custody. Likewise, if one parent is out of town for work frequently, then that can be an issue. Finally, not every parent is fit to watch over their child, as sad as though situations are.
It’s important for parents to understand that if a custody agreement isn’t shared and instead one parent gets primary custody, there isn’t a “winner” and a “loser.” The purpose of a custody agreement is to give the children the best possible living situation. In some cases, that involves both parents. In other instances, it may not.
An attorney can help you fight for what’s best for your child
If you’re about to face a custody battle, or what to amend you previous custody agreement, then you need to reach out to a California attorney. At Torrence L. Howell Attorney at Law, we’ll take a look at your case and let you know what your options are and what’s recommended for your child. Call us today at 909-581-8390 to get started with a free legal consultation.