Video Summary:

The term joint custody can be misleading, as it does not automatically mean a 50/50 parenting time split. In reality, joint custody only defines shared legal rights and responsibilities, while the actual parenting schedule determines how much time each parent spends with the child. Courts may approve equal 50/50 parenting time, but only if both parents can effectively co-parent, communicate, and provide stability for their child. Successful joint custody arrangements require cooperation and a focus on the child’s best interests, rather than just a legal designation.

Video Transcript:

I tell people this all the time—joint custody is just a term, and it means nothing until the specific details of the parenting schedule are defined. For example, a parent can technically have joint custody but only see their child once a month, depending on how the schedule is structured.

Many people assume joint custody automatically means 50/50 parenting time, but that is not the case. A true 50/50 arrangement is possible only when both parents can work together, communicate effectively, and fulfill their parenting responsibilities.

As a divorced father myself, I had joint custody of my two sons. When they were younger, their mother and I successfully implemented a week-on, week-off schedule. This arrangement worked well because we were able to co-parent effectively and maintain a stable environment for our children.

Ultimately, the key to a successful custody arrangement is not just the legal term "joint custody," but how well parents can collaborate and prioritize the child’s best interests.