Shared Parenting in New Hampshire

Custody battles can be exhausting, and all too often, the outcome is not what either parent desires. One type of custody arrangement that is often beneficial for all parties involved—both parents and the child(ren) —is a shared parenting arrangement by which the children spend an equal amount of time with each parent. At The Law Offices of Attorney Michael F. Mimno, we can help you understand the benefits of a shared parenting arrangement, how a parenting schedule is made, and what you can do if you’re dissatisfied with a court custody order.

The Benefits of a Shared Parenting Arrangement

Often times, a shared parenting arrangement is the most ideal custody arrangement for all parties involved, particularly the child. Because a child benefits from maintaining, “frequent and continuing contact,” (Title XLIII Domestic Relations, Chapter 461-A – Parental Rights and Responsibilities) with both parents, a court will strive to reach a custody agreement that satisfies this standard. Or course, this is dependent upon the child’s well-being. Maintaining a relationship with both parents may help to ease psychological and emotional harm suffered by a child, a reality of many divorce cases.

How a Determination About Child Custody is Made in New Hampshire

There are a number of factors that a court will consider when making a determination about a child custody arrangement in New Hampshire. In addition to considering the benefits of frequent contact with both parents, the court will also consider the best interests of the child, determined by:

  • The relationship of the child with both parents;
  • The ability of each parent to adequately provide and care for the child;
  • The child’s developmental needs;
  • Whether or not the child would have to change schools and communities;
  • How each parent supports the child’s relationship with the other parent;
  • Any evidence of abuse; and
  • Any other additional factors found to be relevant by the court.

While a court will make a determination about the parenting schedule when the parents cannot come to an agreement on their own, parents are encouraged by the court to create their own parenting plan. What’s more, parents are further encouraged to share in the responsibilities associated with raising the child together.

Changing a Child Custody Arrangement

Again, it is encouraged that you and your child’s other parent come to a determination about a parenting plan together. If you don’t, then the court will make a determination for you that may not be ideal for either party involved.

If the latter occurs, you may have questions regarding whether or not you can make changes to a child custody arrangement. Making modifications to a child custody arrangement is typically difficult to do, and is typically only accomplished when the other parent agrees to the change, there is a significant change in circumstance, or the child is old enough to contribute to the conversation.

How a Child Custody Attorney in New Hampshire Can Help You

If you have questions about your child custody arrangement, shared parenting, how you can negotiate a parenting plan, and what factors may affect your right to have custody of your child, you need an attorney. At The Law Offices of Attorney Michael F. Mimno, we can review your case, guide you through the components of a parenting plan, and present your case before a court. To learn more, call us today at (603) 479-1152.