When parents separate or divorce, determining a custody arrangement that serves the
best interests of their child is critical. Many families opt for shared parenting
arrangements, where both parents remain actively involved in their child’s life. These
arrangements generally fall into two categories: 50/50 custody arrangements, where
parenting time is evenly split, and non-50/50 shared custody arrangements, where
one parent has more time than the other but both parents still play an active role.
In this blog post, we will explore the most common 50/50 custody schedules and the
most prevalent non-50/50 shared custody schedules to help parents understand their
options and make the best decision for their families.
Most Common 50/50 Custody Arrangements
50/50 custody arrangements ensure that both parents spend equal time with their child.
These schedules work best when parents live relatively close to each other and can
communicate effectively. Below are the most common 50/50 custody schedules:
- Week-On, Week-Off Schedule
How It Works:
The child spends one full week with Parent A.
The child spends the next full week with Parent B.
Exchanges typically happen on Fridays, Sundays, or Mondays.
Pros:
Fewer exchanges, making it easier for parents and children.
Allows for extended, uninterrupted parenting time.
Works well for older children who can handle being away from a parent for a
week.
Cons:
Younger children may struggle with long periods away from one parent.
Parents must have strong communication to manage school schedules,
extracurricular activities, and medical appointments.
2. 2-2-3 Schedule
How It Works:
The child spends Monday and Tuesday with Parent A.
The child spends Wednesday and Thursday with Parent B.
The child alternates weekends between Parent A and Parent B (Friday-Sunday).
Pros:
The child never goes more than three days without seeing either parent.
Works well for younger children who need frequent contact with both parents.
Balanced time split while maintaining routine.
Cons:
Frequent exchanges may be challenging for some families.
Requires good communication and coordination between parents.
3. 3-4-4-3 Schedule
How It Works:
The child spends three days with Parent A.
The child spends four days with Parent B.
The following week, the pattern reverses (four days with Parent A, three days
with Parent B).
Pros:
Less disruptive than a 2-2-3 schedule while still maintaining balance.
Provides consistency while ensuring both parents get weekend time.
Works well for children who need regular transitions but also slightly longer stays.
Cons:
Some children may struggle with different weekly routines.
Parents must keep track of the alternating schedule.
4. 5-2-2-5 Schedule
How It Works:
The child spends five days with Parent A.
The child spends two days with Parent B.
The child then spends five days with Parent B.
The child spends the next two days with Parent A.
Pros:
Works well for parents who need consistency each week.
Both parents get regular weekends.
Fewer transitions than 2-2-3.
Cons:
Some children may find the varying weekday routine confusing.
Requires clear communication between parents.
Schedule a Case Evaluation call 951-339-3826
Most Common Non-50/50 Shared Custody
Arrangements
Not all families can manage a strict 50/50 arrangement due to work schedules,
distance, or other factors. In these cases, parents often choose shared custody
arrangements where one parent has more time than the other but both parents remain
involved.
- 60/40 Custody Arrangements
60/40 schedules are common when one parent has the child for about 60% of the time
and the other parent has the child 40% of the time. Some of the most common
schedules include:
Extended Every Weekend Schedule
How It Works:
The child stays with Parent A Monday through Friday afternoon.
The child stays with Parent B Friday evening through Sunday night.
Pros:
Works well for parents who live far apart.
Provides a stable school-week routine with one parent while still allowing the
other parent extended quality time.
Cons:
The non-custodial parent may feel they are missing out on weekday involvement.
Children may feel less integrated into the non-custodial parent’s home.
3-4-4-3 Schedule (Reversed for 60/40)
A variation of the 50/50 version where one parent consistently has the extra day
each week.
2. 70/30 Custody Arrangements
70/30 custody arrangements allow the child to spend approximately 70% of their time
with one parent and 30% with the other. These schedules are often used when one
parent has a more demanding work schedule or lives farther away.
Every Other Weekend + One Weeknight
How It Works:
- The child lives primarily with Parent A.
- The child visits Parent B every other weekend (Friday-Sunday) and one evening
per week.
Pros:
Provides consistency for the child during the school week.
The non-custodial parent still has regular contact with the child.
Cons:
Limited time with the non-custodial parent.
May not work well if the child desires more time with the other parent
Get the Best Family Law Representation for Your Custody Case
If you’re fighting for child custody in California, you don’t have to go through it
alone. Reel Fathers Rights is the leading law firm dedicated to helping fathers
navigate family law matters, including child custody, divorce, child support,
and domestic violence cases. We have offices in San Diego, Irvine, Corona,
Riverside, and Palm Desert, serving fathers across Southern California.
Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step toward securing
your parental rights!
Click the link HERE to schedule your Consultation or call us 24/7 at 951-633-8595
Call or text 951-339-3826 or complete a Case Evaluation form
