A child custody schedule is an essential element in any divorce or separation situation where children are involved. There are different types of custody that should first be addressed. The two different types of custody are legal and physical and can be divided either solely or jointly. Legal custody can be defined as the right responsibility of a parent to make decisions on behalf of the children.

Physical custody can be defined as the actual physical time a parent spends with the children. Because these two custody can be divided two different ways, there are many different variations to a custody schedule. For sole custody, it is common to have a custody schedule where the non-custodial parent has visitation with the children.

This can be on the weekends, every other weekend, one day or night per week, or various holidays or vacations. For joint custody, common schedules for visitation may be equally dividing holidays and vacations or using a 50/50 custody schedule such as:

5/2/2/5 - the children spend five days with one parent, two days with the other, then two days with the first parent, and five days with the second.

3/3/4/4 - one parent has the children for three days, the children stay with the other parent for three days, and then each parent has the children for four days.

4/1/2 - the children stay with one parent for four days, overnight with the other parent, and back to the first parent for two days.

2/2/3 - each parent cares for the children for two days and then alternate three-day weekends.

Alternating weeks - parents alternate caring for the children each week.

The main reason to set up a custody schedule is to create a stable and consistent environment for the children. Some of the split schedules require a lot of changing of homes and parents and could be potentially unhealthy for children. Sometimes, a more stable schedule with longer periods with one parent is needed.

A custody schedule should be based on the children's needs and should offer them a healthy environment and consistency in living with parents. It provides stability and sets a calendar parents can use to most effectively care for their children. Enjoy your time with your children making memories and helping them live productive and healthy lives. Using a custody schedule can help you be a great parent.

Do not waste time in the uncertainty of losing custody of your kids or having the least visitation rights by not grasping child custody laws. Consult Mr. Binoye Jos at Jos Family Law for the best advice; Find the right custody arrangement guarantee success with the top Child Custody Attorney Orange County. For a free initial consultation, call 1-714~733-7066 today.