When two people file for divorce in Texas, it’s likely that they’ll both want custody of their child. The judge might rule in favor of a joint custody arrangement that allows each parent to get an equal amount of time with the child. This might seem like a fair arrangement, but in fact, a 50/50 custody split isn’t always in the child’s best interests.
When is joint custody not the best solution?
In matters of child custody and visitation, many judges believe that both parents should get an equal shot at raising their child. This might seem fair to the parent, but it also puts much more stress on the child. Instead of living at a single home and falling into a set schedule, the child must constantly adjust to new situations. They also have to deal with two sets of parenting styles and learn different behaviors to please both parents.
Additionally, some parents are simply better at parenting than others. During the marriage, that individual parent has taken on most of the childcare. But now that they’re divorced, the child gets a good parent half the time and a subpar parent every other time. The child might even start to wonder why they can’t just stay with one parent and be done with it.
In some cases, children in joint custody arrangements can show signs of anxiety and depression. It can be difficult, but parents should always be willing to do what’s best for their child — even if it means giving one parent sole custody.
Do you need an attorney for child custody cases?
The judge makes the final decision in child custody cases, but that doesn’t mean you can’t present your case beforehand. An attorney could help you present a strong case that may influence the judge’s decision.