When North Carolina parents are discussing custody options in the process of ending their marriage, they might consider a variety of parenting time divisions. One of the most popular divisions is the 50-50 split, awarded to parents who want to share physical custody equally. This arrangement has many benefits for both parents and children. However, there might also be some concerns and questions about how the plan can work for the family.
The benefits of a 50-50 parenting time split
Child custody decisions are made in the best interest of the child. However, the division of parenting time should also work for all the members of the family. Courts often encourage a 50-50 shared parenting time division due to the many benefits it provides the family. These benefits include:
• Shared parenting responsibility for raising the child
• Continued bond between the child and each of their parents
• Free time for each parent to develop their own social lives and hobbies
• Increased resources to meet the child’s needs
• Higher living standard for the child as they spend time in both households
Concerns about a 50-50 parenting split
However, this type of arrangement might not be for all families. If the parents live too far away from each other, or one parent lives too far away from their child’s school district, it might be difficult to set up a 50-50 division of their parenting time. Similarly, if the parents have a young child, who needs the stability that a primary home and caretaker can provide, the constant changes between homes might not be ideal.
In the end, each family will need to consider their own situation to decide what kind of arrangement will work for them. Splitting custody can be beneficial both to the children as they continue to develop their bond with each parent, and to the parents, as it allows them to continue to grow as individuals.