How Your Work Schedule Affects Child Custody and Parenting Time in Divorce
How Your Work Schedule Can Impact Child Custody in Divorce
When determining child custody and parenting time, the court's primary focus is always the best interest of the child. One major factor that can influence custody arrangements is a parent’s work schedule. As Dan Taylor explains, even the most involved and dedicated parent can face challenges if their job requires long hours, frequent travel, or an unpredictable schedule.
For example, a parent who travels extensively for work—such as an over-the-road truck driver—may need a flexible custody arrangement to ensure they still have meaningful time with their child. On the other hand, parents with consistent or adjustable work schedules have an advantage when it comes to structuring a stable custody plan.
Some key considerations include:
Availability for daily routines – Can you take your child to school or pick them up?
Flexibility in scheduling – Can your work hours be adjusted to accommodate parenting time?
Long absences – How will extended work-related travel impact your ability to maintain a close relationship with your child?
Ultimately, custody isn’t just about who has primary rights—it’s about creating a parenting plan that works best for the child while ensuring both parents stay actively involved.
At Hamer & Taylor, we help parents structure custody agreements that balance work commitments and parental responsibilities, ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your child.
