When two parents decide to end their relationship, one of the most difficult and important decisions they must make is determining child custody. Ideally, the goal is to come up with a custody agreement that is in the best interest of the child, while being fair and reasonable to both parents. One option that is becoming increasingly popular is a 50/50 custody agreement.

A 50/50 custody agreement, also known as shared custody or joint physical custody, is when both parents share equal time with their child. This means that the child spends an equal amount of time with each parent, usually alternating weeks or weekends.

If you and your co-parent have decided to pursue a 50/50 custody agreement, it’s important to put it in writing and make it official. This can be done through a custody agreement letter, which outlines the terms of the agreement and serves as a legal document.

Here are some key elements to include in your 50/50 custody agreement letter:

1. The schedule: Clearly outline the schedule for when the child will be with each parent. This can be a week on/week off schedule, alternating weekends, or any other schedule that works for your family.

2. Holidays and special occasions: Determine how holidays and special occasions will be split between the two parents. For example, one parent may have the child on Christmas Eve, while the other parent has them on Christmas Day.

3. Transportation: Decide who will be responsible for transportation to and from each parent’s home. This can include pick-up and drop-off times and locations.

4. Decision-making: Outline how important decisions regarding the child will be made, such as medical decisions and educational choices.

5. Communication: Determine how communication between the two parents will occur, such as through email or text message.

6. Modifications: Include a clause that allows for modifications to the agreement if necessary. Life circumstances can change, and it’s important to have a plan in place for how to handle these changes.

Overall, a 50/50 custody agreement can be a great option for co-parents who want to share equal time with their child. By putting the agreement in writing, you can help ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the child’s best interests are being met.