Couples who file for separation will usually need to discuss their custody arrangements and settle on a decision that can benefit their children’s physical and emotional well-being. In most cases, the court will prioritize joint custody to help ensure that the children can maintain healthy relationships with both of their parents.
In this blog, we will discuss three essential elements that circle around California’s joint custody laws.
What is joint custody?
There are two types of child custody: legal custody refers to a parent’s right to make important decisions about their children’s lives, while physical custody refers to which parent the children will live with the majority of time.
In a joint custody arrangement, the judge will award you and your ex with legal and physical custody. This means that you can both be involved with your children’s daily activities and the decisions that relate to their upbringing.
What decisions are shared in joint legal custody?
In joint legal custody, you and your ex will have an equal opportunity to raise your children in a well-supported and safe environment. As co-parents, you will share important decisions for your children on:
- School or childcare
- Sports, summer camp and other extracurricular activities
- Family vacations
- Healthcare (e.g., medical, dental)
- Religious and social activities
- Mental health counseling or therapy needs
If the court determines that this type of arrangement can benefit your children’s best interests, the judge may award you and your ex with a joint custody order.
How does parenting time work in joint custody?
Even if you and your ex get joint custody of your children, this arrangement does not mean an equal split of your parenting time (or visitation). In California, joint custody can have two types of parenting time orders:
- With a schedule: You and your ex will have a set of dates and times when you will each spend time with your children. Your visitation schedule can include special occasions and holidays.
- Reasonable: You and your ex will have an open-ended schedule. This visitation set up allows for more flexibility.
Healthy collaboration is key to a good co-parenting relationship
When you and your ex agree to work together as co-parents, you can maintain consistency for your children across two households. This not only helps provide them with stability but also makes them feel safer and more supported.
