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How does joint custody affect making parental decisions?

On Behalf of | Jul 11, 2024 | Family Law

When divorced Connecticut parents choose to have a joint custody agreement. This can be beneficial as it lets them share time with the child, have equal say in decision-making and discuss important matters related to the child.

Even in situations with joint custody, disagreements will arise. It’s important for parents to understand the parameters based on the law and their custody order.

Knowing the facts about a joint custody agreement

With joint custody, the parents share the decisions regarding the child. For example, when they decide what type of schooling the child will receive, they must consult and try to agree. This also means they will share physical custody as efficiently as possible. That might not mean a 50-50 split, but each parent has consistent contact and spends time with the child.

The court functions under the belief that joint custody serves the child’s best interests if the parents have agreed to such an arrangement. In some instances, the court assesses the circumstances and decides not to approve a joint custody agreement.

When the court is hearing a child custody case, the parents are expected to provide the court with their own plan delineating parental responsibilities.

They should have a schedule as to when the child will be with which parent throughout the year; how decision-making will be addressed when the child is with either parent; how future disagreements will be resolved; what happens if a parent does not live up to their responsibilities; how the child’s needs will be addressed as they age; and how the parents will shield the child from any disputes the parents might have.

An organized custody agreement is imperative for the child

Children can be inordinately impacted by parental disputes regarding child custody and parenting time in a family law case. For parents who have joint custody, there is a foundation for working together to benefit the child. Knowing whether this is tenable is essential from the outset. It does not mean there will not be disagreements, but knowing how to settle them based on the law is key.