60/40 Custody Schedule: What’s with a 4-3 example?

A 60/40 joint physical custody agreement means that your child will spend 60 percent of their time with one parent and 40 percent of their time with the other. This is a great schedule because it gives both parents a significant amount of time with the child, but one parent has a little more time.

Parents and/or courts may choose to have this as part of their parenting plan due to work schedules, the child’s personality, or because they don’t want to divide the child equally.

There are a few things to keep in mind if you or the other parent is seeking 60/40 physical custody.

First, with a 60/40 plan there may be more problems paying for child custody. Some states require you to pay child support based on how long you have or don’t have with the child. In this situation, you will have to pay more than if you had 50/50 physical custody. The only way to know what your state requires is to ask a lawyer or research your state laws.

Second, look at the motivation for a 60/40 plan. Many parents try to push for 60 percent because they think it will give them a step up over the other parent. This is not always the case, but you want to make sure that the chosen custody schedule is in the best interest of the child. You can also consult your attorney if you are concerned.

Finally, be thankful for the time you are given. Some parents are upset if it is awarded 60/40 and feel it should have been 50/50. Look at the bright side of being able to have your child as much as you do. There are plenty of people who would love to have 60/40 custody.

Schedule 4-3

The 4-3 schedule is probably one of the most popular options under 60/40 joint physical custody. This schedule works by having your child spend 4 nights a week with one parent and three nights a week with the other.

This schedule is very simple and can be adapted to your needs. For example, each parent can have the same nights each week, or they can change the nights to fit work, school, or weekend schedules. This schedule is also known as an all-weekend schedule if one parent has the child all three nights on the weekend.

The benefit of this plan is that your child frequently spends time with both parents. They know that you both love them and are committed to being their parents.

There are some requirements to effectively implement this plan. You and the other parent must live in close proximity to each other and the child’s school. You will also need to be able to communicate well to update each other on school and other activities.

If you follow this plan, make sure your child is old enough to be able to go back and forth from house to house each week. Some kids really struggle with frequent change. You may want to consider other scheduling options if this is the case.

conclusion

60/40 physical custody with a 4-3 schedule is a great option for you, the other parent, and your child. The most important thing to think about when choosing a custody schedule is to determine what is best for your child. No one knows a child and her needs better than the parents. Good luck!