Video Summary:

Over the years, child custody laws—now referred to as parenting time—have evolved significantly. Traditionally, fathers were given weekends and limited weeknight visits, while mothers had the majority of parenting time. However, courts are now increasingly favoring more balanced schedules, such as Thursday through Monday arrangements or even 50/50 parenting plans when both parents are equally capable of providing a stable environment. In some cases, courts may approve equal parenting time even without mutual agreement if it serves the child’s best interests. This shift towards shared parenting allows children to maintain strong relationships with both parents, ensuring a more stable and supportive upbringing.

Video Transcript:

Since I began practicing divorce law, the concept of child custody—now referred to as parenting time—has evolved significantly.

In the past, custody arrangements typically favored one parent, often with fathers receiving weekend visitation and perhaps one weekday dinner or overnight stay. However, this traditional parenting model is largely outdated.

Today, many courts strive for more balanced parenting schedules. Instead of a simple weekend arrangement, it is now common for one parent to have parenting time from Thursday through Monday, in addition to a midweek overnight visit.

Furthermore, courts are increasingly approving 50/50 parenting plans, particularly when both parents can provide equally stable and supportive environments. In some cases, courts may grant equal parenting time even without mutual agreement, as long as it aligns with the child’s best interests.

This shift in parenting time arrangements is a positive development for families, allowing children to maintain strong relationships with both parents and ensuring a more equitable division of time post-divorce.