What factors will a judge consider when deciding if the parents should have “shared parenting” (joint custody)?
When deciding if shared parenting is in the best interest of the child, the judge will consider all of the factors mentioned in the question above plus the following factors: (1) The ability of each parent to cooperate and make decisions jointly, with respect to the children; (2) The ability of each parent to encourage the sharing of love, affection, and contact between the child and the other parent; (3) Any history of or potential for child abuse, spouse abuse, other domestic violence or parental kidnapping by either parent; (4) How far apart both parents live from each other (to see if shared parenting would be practical) ; (5) The recommendation of the guardian ad litem of the child, if the child has one.* The court may also consider other relevant factors when deciding if shared parenting is appropriate. To read more about these factors, please click here. *R.C.
