When parents get a divorce, courts generally prefer that both parents stay actively involved in the child’s life. A joint physical and legal custody arrangement is often preferred to make sure both parents get equal time with their child, as well as the right to make major decisions for the child. However, Texas courts do not always require time to be split evenly. Courts will focus on the best interests of the child when determining child custody. Several factors may be considered, including:
- Whether there is domestic violence in the household
- Whether there was abuse and neglect
- The parents’ ability and willingness to properly provide for the child
- The parents’ involvement in the child’s upbringing
- The parents’ willingness to coparent and cooperate with each other
- The location of each parent’s home relative to the child’s school and activities
- The child’s wishes, if the child is over 12 years old
If the court grants a joint custody arrangement, the parents may have to work together to figure out the best way to share time with their child. Some potential arrangements may include:
- Alternating weeks: Parent A will have the child for one week, while Parent B will have them the next week.
- Extended weekends: Parent A will have the child Monday through Wednesday, and Parent B will have the child Thursday through Sunday. The parents may then alternate weekends, holidays, etc.
- 2-2-3: Parent A will have the child for two days, Parent B will have the child for the next two days, and Parent A will have the child again for the weekend. The following week, Parent B will have the child for two days, Parent A will have the child for two days, and Parent B will have the child for the weekend.
Determining child custody schedules can be challenging due to parents’ work schedules, as well as the child’s activities. However, if parents remember to focus on the child’s best interests, it is likely that they will be able to come up with a reasonable plan.
