There is a lot of research out there that shows why shared parenting is good for children. There is a lot to be said for that theory. However, there is a problem with joint child custody that may make it not worth it for some Massachusetts parents.
When parents enter a joint custody arrangement, both are given some level of legal and physical custody of their children. This means that they both get to spend time with their children, and they both get to make important life decisions for their children. It is the legal custody side of things where the problem lies. Not all parents can agree on everything.
A prime example of this is a case that just recently made the news in another state. The parents of a 9-year-old boy share custody. The mom does not want her son vaccinated while the dad does. The case was ultimately taken to court, and a judge had the final say in the matter. The mom was ordered to get the child vaccinated or face jail time.
Is it possible to have joint child custody and avoid this type of situation? Possibly. Custody orders can be extremely detailed. Divorcing parents in Massachusetts can discuss potential issues before a final order is established so that, if a problem arises, the answer to the issue is already there in black and white. With the assistance of an experienced family law attorney, it is possible to seek to have certain stipulations included in a child custody order.
Source: msn.com, Mom Would Rather Go to Jail Than Vaccinate Son”, Claudya Martinez, Oct. 3, 2017
