Wisconsin Custody and Physical Placement of a Child

If you are a parent considering divorce, you and your spouse may be able to work out an agreement regarding child custody and physical placement that works well for your child.  Child custody refers to a right to make legal decisions regarding your child, which may include where your child will attend school, their religious affiliation, what medical care they receive and more. Some parents agree to make all important decisions together, but for others working together on any level may prove difficult.  Keep in mind that the court goes in with a presumption that both parents should have decision making authority of their child unless there is evidence of problems such as domestic violence or abuse. In the absence of any serious issues, you and your spouse may have to be flexible when approaching how you will handle custody of your child.

Physical Placement

Physical placement refers to how much time a child spends with each parent. If you and your spouse intend to live in close proximity following the divorce, you may be able to work out an arrangement where the child divides their time between both homes somewhat equally. To cut down disruption to daily school attendance, parents who live a bit farther apart may opt for an every other weekend arrangement during the school year and split summer breaks and holidays. When trying to reach a workable arrangement, it is important to consider the age of the child and their comfort level in switching between homes, or whether traveling longer distances to spend time with a parent is a good fit. Certainly as kids get older, they are more able to make sense out of the shuffle allowing them to benefit from a relationship with both parents.

When couples cannot agree on custody or physical placement, they may be referred by the court to counseling in an attempt to reach an agreement. Failing that, a judge will decide after considering the unique circumstances presented. He or she may enlist the help of a child representative such as a Guardian Ad Litem to make recommendations on custody and placement that serve the child’s best interests. If there are issues that may present a danger to a child such as a recent history of drug abuse or domestic abuse, custody and placement may be affected as problems are resolved.

Questions Regarding Wisconsin Child Custody or Physical Placement?

If you have questions regarding Wisconsin custody and physical placement, please contact our Wisconsin family law attorneys for answers. The Brookfield and Waukesha area child custody lawyers of Probst Law offices have over three decades of experience with family law and can help you work through child custody issues. Call us today at 414-210-3135 or send us an email to schedule your free consultation.