These two legal terms sound similar which is what makes them confusing. Even though they can share some similarities, they can be very different. It’s good to understand the terms and visit child custody lawyers in Harrisburg, PA. In general, joint custody refers to parents having equal rights when it comes to decision making and shared custody is more focused on how time is shared with the child.
What is Shared Custody?
Parents both have a legal right to physically share children. Usually, each parent maintains a household and spends similar amounts of time with them. But even then, there are some important decisions about healthcare, religion and education which may or may not be shared between the parents. Often, these decisions fall on one parent. When decision making is shared, both parental parties should cooperate and make choices based on the best interest of the child.
When is Shared Custody Appropriate?
There are a few scenarios which are best for shared custody, including:
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One of the parents spends long periods of time away from home
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One parent is not financially stable
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One parent is ill, injured or physically unable to care for the child
What is Joint Custody?
This term refers to both parents sharing decisions and responsibilities for the upbringing of their child. They are both highly involved, so it’s imperative they work together and can agree on schedules, education, and other areas. Child custody lawyers in Harrisburg, PA may suggest considering joint custody in these scenarios:
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Parents both work and live in the same area
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The children are teens
A rotating visitation plan is often created by the parents. However, if they cannot come into agreement, then a judge can decide how the child will spend their time with each parent.
Are you considering or working through a divorce, but worried about your child? Visit the Harshberger Law Firm website to find out how our child custody lawyers in Harrisburg, PA can help you.
