Shared parenting is the idea that both parents have an equal or significant say in how their children are raised. Such an arrangement is created when it is in the best interest of the child and when the parents ask for it. One of the main benefits of a shared parenting arrangement is that kids in Kentucky and elsewhere have both parents in their lives on a regular basis.
When parents share custody of their children, they need to put aside their feelings for each other and focus solely on their kids. To do otherwise could put the kids in the middle of a fight they did not cause. Ideally, the adults will take time to think about the specifics of their shared custody plan before agreeing to it. The ability for parents to create a stable environment for a child will be one factor used to determine if they should both have custody of a minor.
The financial resources of a parent as well as how far a parent lives from a child could influence a custody ruling. When a ruling is created, it may not result in each parent having exactly half of the decision-making power. Instead, responsibilities can be divided as appropriate to meet the best interests of the child.
Those who are seeking shared custody of their children may benefit from keeping detailed records of how they care for them. Parents are also encouraged to put any past convictions or other potential red flags into context if they exist. An attorney may help an individual develop a narrative showing that he or she can be a positive influence in a child’s life. This may be enough to get joint custody or greater rights to be around the child.