IS A 50/50 POSSESSION SCHEDULE RIGHT FOR YOU—
Many divorcing parents feel they should be entitled to see their children at least half of the time. Most of them are surprised when I tell them this is not necessarily the case.Courts determine parents’ possession schedules based on what they feel is in the best interests of the children. In other words, you do not (and should not) get a 50/50 possession schedule just because you want it.
Why do you want 50/50?
Many people want a 50/50 possession schedule because they think they will not be ordered to pay child support. Even if the parents see the children equally, a court may still make a parent pay child support. Especially if there is a significant disparity in income between the parents.
Additional Factors the Court will Consider:
1. How well do you and your ex get along?
To make a 50/50 possession schedule work, the parents will often have to set their conflict aside for the sake of the children. If they are not able to do that, the schedule may not work.
2. How far apart do you and your ex live?
The closer, the better. If both parents live in the same school district, the transitions will probably be easier.
3. What are the kids’ schedules?
The kids’ schedules are also a factor in whether 50/50 works. The more activities a child is involved in, the harder the 50/50 possession schedule becomes.
4 What kind of 50/50 possession schedule works best?
The most popular 50/50 possession schedules are week-on, week-off.
