The Pros and Cons of Shared Child Custody: What You Need to Know Before Making a Decision

Florida’s public policy supports joint custody when possible, underscoring the importance of a child having a continuing and stable relationship with both parents. However, there can be some drawbacks to this arrangement. Understanding the benefits and potential disadvantages of this arrangement can help you make a more informed decision about what is right for your family. 

Pros of Shared Custody

With shared custody, both parents have parenting time and share in making decisions about the child. Some of the advantages offered by shared custody include the following:

A Stronger Bond With Both Parents

When only one parent is awarded custody, the other parent may see the child less pursuant to a visitation schedule. When parents share custody, it’s more likely that both parents will have more time with the child, allowing the parents to maintain strong relationships with their child. 

Shared Parental Responsibilities

Parenting is hard. When all the responsibility falls on one parent, it can make it difficult for the entire family to function. The custodial parent may feel overwhelmed, the other parent can feel isolated and unimportant, and the child can feel the stress of the situation. By sharing the load, a more harmonious dynamic may be possible. 

Stable Environment 

When a child has regular and frequent contact with both parents, they may feel a greater sense of stability. 

Positive Role-Modeling 

Shared custody arrangements can enable parents to demonstrate to their children how to co-parent in a positive manner. Children in these arrangements can learn effective communication and problem-solving skills. 

Cons of Shared Custody

Some of the potential drawbacks of a shared child custody arrangement can include:

Potential for Increased Conflicts

Sometimes, parents just don’t get along. With more frequent interactions, there is a greater likelihood of conflicts arising. Shared custody can be a source of stress and frequent disagreements, which can negatively affect both children and parents. 

Inconsistency

When children have to make frequent transitions, they may struggle with inconsistency. Parents may have different rules and disciplinary methods in different homes. Children may forget things they need at school or in one home that they have in the other. These dynamics can be damaging to children.

Difficulty Planning

Parents with a shared parenting arrangement may find it challenging to plan their schedules. Lack of a fixed schedule can make it difficult for parents to plan vacations or other activities, and frequent transportation can be costly. Coordinating schedules can be difficult with two people, let alone three. 

No Child Support

If the child spends about equal time in each home, the court may not award child support, as each parent is expected to provide for the child while they are in their care. 

Factors to Consider Whether Shared Custody Is Right in Your Situation

Every family is different, so what’s right for one might not be right for another. 

Some of the factors that you should consider before determining which child custody arrangement is right for your family are:

  • Any history or threat of domestic violence
  • Your child’s age and needs
  • How close your homes are
  • Your work schedules
  • How well you communicate with the other parent
  • Your child’s preferences

Your child’s best interests should always be considered.

Contact McMichen, Cinami & Demps for a Free Consultation With an Orlando Child Custody Lawyer

If you’d like a better understanding of what shared custody entails in Florida or deciding whether this arrangement is right for you, contact the Orlando child custody attorneys from McMichen, Cinami & Demps to schedule a free consultation. We can evaluate your situation and explain your options.

If you’re facing a custody dispute or considering changes to an existing arrangement, you should contact an experienced Orlando child custody attorney at McMichen, Cinami & Demps. Understanding your rights is the first step toward a resolution that prioritizes your goals and your child’s best interests. Call us today at (407) 898-2161 to schedule a free consultation.

McMichen, Cinami & Demps – Orlando Office
1500 E Concord St
Orlando, FL 32803