The Pros and Cons of 50/50 Child Custody in Pennsylvania

When parents separate or divorce in Pennsylvania, one of the most important topics is child custody. Custody arrangements determine not just where a child lives but who has the right to make key decisions about their upbringing. Whether you’re navigating an amicable co-parenting arrangement or a more complex situation, it’s important to understand the types of custody the state recognizes and what the pros and cons of 50/50 child custody are in Pennsylvania.

If you’re dealing with a child custody case, the LLF Law Firm Family Law Team can provide your family with the legal support and guidance you need. Call 888-535-3686 or send us a message via our contact form.

Types of Custody in Pennsylvania

Parents can have shared or sole custody of their children in Pennsylvania. They can also have physical or legal custody, which isn’t necessarily the same thing.

• Physical vs Legal Custody: Physical custody refers to the care-taking of the child, i.e., providing everything that meets the child’s needs. Legal custody is the authority to make major decisions for the child, such as their religion or education.

Pros of 50/50 Custody in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania courts generally see joint custody as a positive and try to arrange for children to spend as much time with both of their parents as possible. However, it’s not an automatic presumption, and custody is assigned on a case-by-case basis.

1. Enhanced Child Development: Maintaining strong relationships with both parents can lead to higher self-esteem for children.
2. Shared Responsibilities: Both parents can actively participate in their child’s life, reducing the burden of a single parent.
3. Alleviate Costs: Child-rearing costs can be split between the two parents. Pennsylvania law allows for parents to contribute child support based on their incomes rather than splitting costs 50/50.
4. Consistent Routine: When parents collaborate and implement the same rules and routines in both their households, it helps establish stability for the child.

Cons of 50/50 Custody in Pennsylvania

Although the courts may aim to split time between the parents as evenly as possible, sometimes it’s not in the child’s best interest. Depending on the circumstances, there could be disadvantages to 50/50 custody.

1. Logistical Challenges: Moving from one parent’s house to another frequently can be disruptive for a child, especially if the two parents have conflicting schedules.
2. Potential for Conflict: If two parents have a strained relationship, seeing each other often could lead to disagreements, which would negatively affect the child.
3. Child Support: Even if the custody arrangement is 50/50, child support payments may still be required, especially if one parent earns more than the other. One parent may have to pay substantially more but still only sees their child 50 percent of the time.

At the LLF Law Firm, our Family Law Team can help parents navigate a child custody case. You want what’s best for your children, but you also want to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process. We can help you achieve both. Call 888-535-3686 or contact us via our online form to set up a consultation.