Exploring Alternative Child Possession Orders: Beyond the Standard Possession Order
When parents separate or divorce, one of the most challenging aspects is determining how to share custody of their children. While Standard Possession Orders (SPO) are the most commonly used framework, they may not suit every family’s unique situation. In this blog post, we will explore alternative child possession orders that can provide more tailored solutions for families, ensuring that the best interests of the child are always prioritized.
Understanding Standard Possession Orders (SPO)
Before diving into alternatives, it’s essential to understand what a Standard Possession Order entails. An SPO typically allows for the noncustodial to spend time with each child slightly more than every other weekend (during the school year)l; on Thursdays during the school year; and, most of the summer. While this arrangement works for many families, it can be inflexible and may not accommodate individual needs, such as differing work schedules or special circumstances.
Types of Alternative Child Possession Orders
1. Wrap Visitation Schedules
Wrap visitation schedules offer a flexible approach to custody arrangements, allowing parents to create a more balanced and comprehensive plan. These schedules can be particularly advantageous for families who want to maximize time with their children while accommodating both parents’ needs. Two popular wrap visitation schedules include the 2-5 possession schedule and the 3-4 possession schedule.
2-5 Possession Schedule
The 2-5 possession schedule typically works well for parents who want to ensure their child spends quality time with both of them during the week. In this arrangement, one parent has the child for two days, while the other parent has the child for five days. Then, that schedule is reversed.
Example:
- Parent A has the child from Monday to Tuesday.
- Parent B has the child from Wednesday to Sunday.
- Fridays-Sunday are alternated each week.
This schedule allows for significant time with both parents, and it can be adjusted based on the family’s specific needs, considering matters such as school breaks, holidays, and a child and/or parent’s birthday.
3-4 Possession Schedule
The 3-4 possession schedule is another alternative that can provide a fair balance of time. In this scenario, one parent has the child for three days, while the other parent has the child for four days. And, then, as with the 2-5 Schedule, that arrangement is reversed. This arrangement can be particularly effective for families where both parents are actively involved in their child’s life.
This schedule allows each parent to have a longer continuous period with the child. The fact that the parents’ respective days of possession change frequently; and, the difficulty in dealing with weekends, are the most common objections to this schedule. We rarely see it being adopted by parties as their preference.
2. Supervised Visitation
In situations where there are concerns about a parent’s ability to provide a safe environment for the child, supervised visitation can be arranged. This means that the parent can only spend time with the child in the presence of a third-party supervisor.
Example: If there are allegations of abuse or neglect, a court may order supervised visits to ensure the child’s safety while allowing the parent to maintain a relationship. (We plan on blogging about this in more detail later; so, check this pace!).
3. Factors to Consider When Choosing an Alternative Order
When determining the best alternative possession order, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:
- Child’s Age and Needs: Younger children may require more stability, while older children might benefit from a more flexible arrangement that accommodates activities and social engagements.
- Parental Cooperation: The willingness of both parents to communicate and cooperate can significantly influence the effectiveness of any possession order.
- Work Schedules: Parents’ jobs can impact the feasibility of certain arrangements. Understanding each parent’s work commitments will help create a more practical schedule.
- Child’s Preference: Depending on their age and maturity, a child’s preferences may be taken into account when establishing visitation schedules.
Conclusion
Selecting the right child possession order is a critical step in ensuring a healthy co- parenting relationship and the well-being of the child. While Standard Possession Orders are a common framework, alternative arrangements like wrap visitation schedules can provide more tailored solutions that fit the specific needs of families. By exploring these options, parents can create a supportive environment that prioritizes their child’s happiness and stability.
Remember, the ultimate goal is to foster a nurturing and loving environment for you child, no matter which possession order you choose. If you’re navigating this complex journey, consider consulting with a family law professional to help you find the best solution for your situation.