When two parents divorce, the first question that is usually asked in the attorney’s office is, “Who gets the kids?” Generally, both parents are not facing accusations of being “unfit” and unless one parent has a strong preference for sole custody, most couples try to work towards a joint custody arrangement. Joint custody usually is designated by one parent being named “primary” or “custodial” and the other parent is “secondary” or “non-custodial.”
Once these designations are determined, the parents must develop the visitation schedule for the non-custodial parent. Some parents, even though they are divorcing, still get along well enough to put into place a 50/50 shared custody arrangement where the child alternates weeks with the parents.
This type of arrangement can be very beneficial for the child or children involved as they get the maximum benefit of spending time with and bonding with each parent. These arrangements can also offer much more time for the child to spend time with extended family members of each side of the family. One couple in particular, a pair of active bloggers, made the decision to create a blog (When The Flames Go Up) documenting their journey into joint/shared custody after a divorce.
If you’re contemplating whether or not this arrangement might be “do-able” in your own life, I recommend you take some time and read the entries where this couple has faced – together – the various issues that come up with their children.