In Indiana family law cases involving children, establishing a clear and workable parenting time schedule is crucial for the well-being of both the children and the parents. While each family's situation is unique, there are several common parenting time schedules that courts often consider or that parents frequently agree upon. This blog will explore these common schedules and provide insights into their application in Indiana.
Before diving into specific schedules, it is important to note that Indiana has established Parenting Time Guidelines. These guidelines provide a framework for parenting time arrangements but are not mandatory. Courts and parents can deviate from these guidelines based on the best interests of the child and the family's specific circumstances.
The every other weekend schedule is one of the most traditional parenting time schedules, often used when one parent has primary custody. The schedule for the non-custodial parent is parenting time every other weekend; typically from Friday evening to Sunday evening. Sometimes this schedule will include one evening visit during the week for the non-custodial parent. This schedule provides stability with a primary home for the child and this parenting schedule is clear and easy to follow. This is a good schedule for families where one parent has limited availability during the week or situations where children benefit from a stable, primary residence.
The 2-2-3 schedule provides more frequent exchanges and nearly equal parenting time. The schedule is as follows: Parent A has the child for two (2) days; Parent B has the child for the next two (2) days; Parent A has the child for three (3) days; and the schedule then repeats with Parent B starting the cycle. This schedule provides near-equal parenting time and frequent contact with both parents. One downside to this may be the frequency of exchanges during the week. This schedule is best for parents who live close to each other and families with good communication and flexibility.
The “week on, week off” schedule alternates full weeks between parents. Each parent has the child for a full week at a time and exchanges typically occur on Friday after school or Sunday evening. This schedule allows for extended time with each parent and less frequent exchanges. This schedule can be challenging for younger children due to the long periods away from each parent. This is also a good schedule for parents who live relatively close to each other.
The 3-4-4-3 schedule is similar to the 2-2-3 schedule but with longer blocks of time. The schedule is as follows: Parent A has the child for three (3) days; Parent B has the child for four (4) days; Parent A has the child for four (4) days; Parent B has the child for three (3) days; and then the cycle repeats. This is another schedule that is near equal parenting time with longer blocks of time. This can be a complex schedule to track but this is a good schedule for parents with flexible work schedules.
The 5-2-2-5 schedule provides consistent weekly routine with extended weekend time. The schedule provides the following: Parent A has the child Monday and Tuesday every week; Parent B has the child Wednesday and Thursday every week; and Parents alternate Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This is a consistent weekday schedule and provides for extended weekend time. This schedule is best for families who value routine during the school week and parents who can manage multiple exchanges. One important note is that this schedule is an uneven distribution of weekend time.
When determining the most appropriate parenting time schedule, Indiana courts and parents consider several factors: the age and developmental needs of the child; the distance between parents' homes; parents' work schedules; the child's school and extracurricular activities; each parent's ability to care for the child; and the level of cooperation between parents. While these schedules represent common arrangements in Indiana, the best parenting time schedule is one that meets the unique needs of your family. It's crucial to focus on what works best for your children while considering the practical aspects of implementation. The attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C. have a strong background in family law in Indiana. We are here to help you navigate parenting time. This blog was written by attorneys at Ciyou & Associates, P.C., and this blog is not intended to provide specific legal advice or solicitation of services as this is an advertisement.
