This year, thousands of couples across the country will decide to go their separate ways. For those who are parents, the needs of their children often remain their top priority for years after the divorce is finalized. Numerous studies have shown that children benefit the most when both parents remain in their lives. For this reason, many parents in Illinois agree on a joint child custody arrangement. Joint custody arrangements come with some distinct advantages.
Shared discipline
Parents who have a joint custody arrangement get to share the joys of parenting and discipline. With joint custody, parents work together and maintain consistent discipline standards across households. This consistency and structure often allow the children to thrive.
Shared expenses
Every parent knows that raising children is expensive. In a joint custody arrangement, parents will typically be able to share more of the expenses that come with raising kids. As things pop up like school projects, each parent handles these individually as needed. The larger child-rearing expenses should be shared by both parents.
Free time for parents
Joint custody arrangements also have some benefits specifically for parents. Each parent has time away from the kids, and parents can use this time to pursue goals, hobbies or just focus on taking care of themselves. Keep in mind that the laws surrounding child custody in Illinois can be confusing. Parents who have questions or concerns about the legal aspects of child custody or custody arrangements can get help by speaking with an experienced and knowledgeable family law attorney.