Joint custody has gained popularity over the years as a great potential option for divorcing parents. Numerous studies back up the benefits that many children can reap from it.
However, joint custody is not always the best option for every family. Are there situations where someone should avoid looking into it?
Discomfort with a co-parent
Forbes has discussed on numerous occasions matters of joint custody and the potential benefits it brings. However, joint custody is not the perfect solution for every family.
For one, joint custody relies on both parents having the ability to get along with one another and comply with the parameters set in advance. Sometimes, conflict of personality or personal interest is so intense that it gets in the way of parents having what it takes to accomplish this.
Access to the child
Joint custody also typically relies on both parents having the ability to access their child whenever necessary. Thus, this bars people who end up relocated or put into a position where they cannot travel with ease. Examples include people who serve as active duty members of the military or people faced with a period of incarceration.
Accusations of abuse
Finally, related to the above, joint custody will not work out in a family where one spouse currently faces allegations of neglect or abuse. Needless to say, until the matter gets settled, it is in the best interest of the child to not have any alone time with the accused parent.
If a family falls into one of these categories, they may benefit more from looking into other forms of custody rather than trying to rely on joint custody.