What is Split Child Custody in Oklahoma?

When a couple is going through a divorce and they have kids, it is inevitable and unavoidable that the question of custody must be decided. It is not uncommon for a divorce to draw out because there are issues over the two most sensitive subjects, which are money and child custody. It can be very hard for a parent to have to come to the realization that their time with their child could be reduced. As a result, the fight for sole custody or the most custody possible can be contentious.

If you are getting ready to divorce your spouse and are concerned about issues such as child custody, then it is important to have an experienced and strategic divorce lawyer on your side. The Oklahoma City divorce attorneys at the Putnam Law Office understand the great emotion and significance that the outcome of a divorce can have. It is important to get every detail right, even the small ones. When it comes to child custody, this is one of the most important aspects that have to be executed appropriately. Determining both the living situation and the time children have with each of their parents is critical. Establishing the best situation is imperative because of the lasting effect it can have on children.

How Does Split Custody Work?

Child custody in Oklahoma is based on what is in the best interests of the child, as it should be. There are several different ways that custody can be divided, or given only to one parent.

Split custody is just one of these methods. Put simply, when there is more than one child in a divorce, one parent gets primary custody of one child or more than one while their ex has primary custody of the other or others. Split custody is not a child support arrangement that is common, but that does not mean it does not happen.

Determining child support in Oklahoma is a little bit more complicated in a split custody situation in terms of steps to take. However, it follows along the same lines of figuring out support when one parent has primary custody over the other.

There has to be a calculation done for each parent. The income, costs, and other associated factors that are used in the typical computation for one parent, are just done two times for both. There is likely going to be a difference in the amounts. One parent would usually have to pay more than the other. As a result, the ultimate final support number will be the higher amount lesser the lower amount. The parent who was calculated to have the lower amount will be the one that is being paid child support and receive that difference. The parent that was determined to have the higher amount would be the payer.

Speak with an Oklahoma Divorce Attorney Today

Split child custody may not be the right approach to child custody in Oklahoma for every family, but for some it is appropriate. If you have questions about divorce and child custody and need help during your divorce you can call on the legal team at the Putnam Law Office to schedule your free consultation at 405-724-7701.