Sharing custody puts pressure on both parents. They have to adhere to a specific schedule and routinely communicate with one another. During their parenting time, they have sole responsibility for meeting the needs of their children.
Shared custody has become the standard expectation in cases where parents divorce or separate while children are still minors. Parents can work with one another to establish their own custody terms, or they may choose to litigate if they disagree.
Sometimes, parents assume that they are not in a position to request shared custody because of their careers. Can third-shift schedules, travel demands and overtime make parents incapable of sharing custody?
The order should reflect family circumstances
A custody order can address more than just the overall division of parenting time. It can include a number of critical provisions that help address unique family challenges. The goal is to set terms that uphold the children’s best interests, which usually involves maintaining strong connections with both parents.
If one parent frequently works overtime or travels for their job, they may need to negotiate custody terms that allow for enhanced scheduling flexibility when they have job responsibilities. Parents may also choose to add the right of first refusal to a parenting plan. This important provision allows either parent to spend time with the children when the other is unavailable and might rely on child care services.
Parents may also include provisions discussing child care in cases where a professional parent may rely on others to be with their children while they are at work. Establishing standards for who provides child care or including restrictions that address problematic family members or friends can be helpful.
For example, the parents might agree that no one who has a case history related to child abuse or neglect or a criminal record should serve as a child care provider. With the right inclusions, a parenting plan can make it possible for professionals in even the most demanding careers to be an active, positive presence in the lives of their children.
Discussing concerns about shared custody and parental careers with a skilled legal team can help people work out arrangements that truly uphold what is best for their children. Even the most successful and busiest professionals are potentially in a position to spend regular time with their children after a divorce or separation.
