Are you a good candidate for shared parenting?

What is often known as joint custody is shared parenting in Ohio. Under a shared parenting plan, both parents have equal contributions to decision-making as well as equal time with the children. Shared parenting is an ideal solution because it preserves the child’s relationship with both parents and keeps communication open.

Some situations are better suited for shared parenting than others.

Are you both able to come to joint decisions about your child?

Some relationships end amicably enough that both parties are able to at least maintain civil discussions when it comes to the children. If you and your spouse are able to come to mutual agreements about the big decisions, that makes shared parenting easier.

Do you live close to each other?

Shared parenting works best when both parties are in close enough proximity to maintain consistent contact. When you live that close, your children face less disruption from the shared parenting time as well.

Do you both have positive relationships with your child?

Shared parenting only works when both parents have a strong, positive relationship with the child. If either parent has a history of abuse, abandonment or isolation, shared parenting is not the most effective solution.

Does the guardian ad litem agree?

If the court appoints a guardian ad litem for your child, the court weighs its opinion heavily. The guardian ad litem will issue a statement to the court about what they feel is right for the child.

Consider whether you can work with your child’s other parent to create a shared parenting plan to balance the time you both get with your child.