Here are the key requirements for split custody of a child as per law:
Best Interests of the Child
1. Child’s welfare: The court’s primary consideration is the child’s physical, emotional, and psychological welfare.
2. Best interests: The court must determine what arrangement is in the child’s best interests.
Parental Cooperation
1. Cooperation: Parents must demonstrate an ability to cooperate and communicate effectively.
2. Joint decision-making: Parents must be willing to make joint decisions regarding the child’s care.
Parenting Plan
1. Written plan: Parents must submit a written parenting plan outlining their proposed custody arrangement.
2. Detailed schedule: The plan must include a detailed schedule outlining each parent’s time with the child.
Geographic Proximity
1. Reasonable distance: Parents must reside in reasonable proximity to each other to facilitate regular contact.
2. Logistical arrangements: Parents must make logistical arrangements for transportation and communication.
Financial Arrangements
1. Child support: Parents must determine child support arrangements, including the amount and frequency of payments.
2. Expense sharing: Parents must agree on how expenses related to the child’s care will be shared.
Stability and Continuity
1. Stability: The custody arrangement must provide stability and continuity for the child.
2. Minimal disruption: The arrangement must minimize disruption to the child’s life.
Parental Responsibility
1. Shared responsibility: Parents must share responsibility for the child’s care and upbringing.
2. Decision-making authority: Parents must have joint decision-making authority regarding the child’s education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities.
Court Approval
1. Court review: The parenting plan must be reviewed and approved by the court.
2. Binding order: The approved plan becomes a binding court order.
Ongoing Evaluation
1. Regular review: The custody arrangement must be regularly reviewed to ensure it remains in the child’s best interests.
2. Adjustments: The arrangement can be adjusted as necessary to reflect changes in circumstances.
