Your decision to end your marriage is one perhaps preceded by careful consideration and thoughtful conversations with the other partner. Even when there are strong feelings and even conflict, it is still possible for two adults to work through the terms of their divorce order together and with the goal of a reasonable outcome. This is often the case in situations where the parents work together in order to reach a beneficial custody agreement.
If you are facing a divorce, you likely have concerns about how this process could impact your kids. For this reason, you may be considering a joint custody agreement, an arrangement that would allow your kids to have regular contact with both parents after a divorce. While this is often a beneficial option in many situations, it is still important to carefully consider all options before you make any final decisions.
The benefits of joint custody
Many families find that joint custody is the best option for their family because it provides the children with the opportunity to maintain regular relationships with both parents, even after divorce. This is important for their mental and emotional health, and it can provide them with relative continuity of lifestyle. Other benefits of a joint custody order include:
- The custody rotation will force you and your kids to live on a schedule, which can be a positive thing for all of you.
- When you share custody, you and the other parent will be able to share the daily costs associated with raising children.
- You and the other parent will share the responsibility of disciplining and making important decisions for the children.
- A joint custody arrangement gives you the opportunity to have time for yourself and to focus on your post-divorce future when your kids are with the other parent.
If you are considering joint custody, you may benefit from a professional evaluation of your family’s situation in order to determine if this is the right choice for you. While many Arizona families prefer joint custody, that does not necessarily mean that it is the best or only choice for you and your kids. Before you move forward with an agreement, it will be helpful to learn more about all the custody and visitation options available to you.