What are the Benefits and Drawbacks of Shared Custody in Florida?

The Florida courts make decisions regarding child custody, known as time-sharing in the state, according to the child’s best interests. Although the courts sometimes have to make these decisions, the parents can also agree to a time-sharing plan. Generally speaking, the courts favor shared custody arrangements, which allows each parent to spend time with their child and make important decisions for them. As such, it is generally advised that parents also try to reach a shared custody agreement.

While shared custody does have many benefits, there are also some drawbacks. These agreements, as well-intentioned as they are, do not always work. Below, one of our Tampa child custody attorneys explains in further detail.

What are the Benefits of Shared Custody? 

Shared custody has many benefits for both parents, as it provides them each with significant benefits. These include:

• Stronger bond with both parents: In a shared custody agreement, children can maintain strong bonds with each of their parents, which can minimize the emotional impact of divorce. According to several studies, children usually have fewer emotional and behavioral issues, better performance in school, and better relationships with their family when they can spend time with both parents.
• Shared parental responsibilities: In shared custody arrangements, both parents share responsibilities and the tasks of daily child-rearing. This means one parent does not shoulder the entire burden, reducing conflict between the two parents and stress, while also preventing burnout.
• Stability: Children have a stronger sense of stability when they have regular contact with both of their parents. Avoiding radical changes helps children build a stronger connection with them and prevents them from feeling as though they lost a parent.
• Positive example: Shared custody agreements also set a good example of positive role modeling. They can learn about problem-solving and effective communication by watching their parents.

What are the Drawbacks of Shared Custody?

 Although shared custody has many benefits, there are times when it is not the ideal option. There are some drawbacks that come with these arrangements and they are as follows:

• Increased disputes: Parents often face the same issues they dealt with during their marriage when trying to co-parent. When parents have poor communication skills or unresolved issues, shared custody can actually harm the child further.
• Lack of consistency: Making frequent changes between two homes can infringe on a child’s sense of security and stability. It can be even more harmful if the parenting styles in the two homes are inconsistent. This can make children feel confused and stressed.
• Difficult logistics: Transporting children back and forth between homes can be stressful for everyone involved. It is important to balance priorities such as work and school with the child’s need to spend time with each parent.

Our Child Custody Attorneys in Tampa Can Help

 Determining which child custody arrangement is right for you is not easy. At All Family Law Group, P.A., our Tampa child custody attorneys can review the facts of your case and help you determine which arrangement is right for you. Call us today at 813-672-1900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and to get the legal help you need. Se Habla Espanol.

Source:

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0000-0099/0061/Sections/0061.13.html