Determining the schedule each parent has with their child following separation or divorce often involves a process of dividing the child’s time between households. This division can be expressed as a percentage of days, overnights, or hours spent with each parent, forming the basis of the visitation arrangement. As an example, if one parent has the child every weekend and alternating holidays, the calculation will determine the proportion of time that represents within a calendar year.
Accurately determining the allocation of parental responsibilities is crucial for several reasons. It provides clarity and stability for the child, allowing for predictable routines and minimizing potential conflict between parents. Furthermore, the time each parent spends with the child often directly influences child support calculations and other legal considerations related to the well-being of the child. Historically, methods for dividing this time have evolved from simplistic alternating weekends to more complex arrangements reflecting the individual needs of each family.
