Legal Definitions - divided custody

Definition: Divided custody is an arrangement in which each parent has exclusive physical custody and full control of and responsibility for the child part of the time, with visitation rights in the other parent. For example, a mother might have custody during the school year, and the father might have custody during the summer vacation.

Example: In a divorce or separation proceeding, the court may award divided custody to both parents if it is in the best interest of the child. This means that the child will spend equal time with both parents, and each parent will have full control and responsibility for the child during their time.

Explanation: Divided custody is a type of child custody arrangement in which both parents have equal time with the child. This means that each parent will have full control and responsibility for the child during their time, and the other parent will have visitation rights. This type of custody arrangement is usually awarded when both parents are deemed fit and capable of caring for the child, and it is in the best interest of the child to spend equal time with both parents.