josh@newrockit.com | September 19, 2025 | Child Custody
Navigating a divorce or separation is hard enough. Deciding how to parent your child moving forward can be even harder. One common option is shared child custody—legally referred to as “joint custody” in Louisiana. This arrangement gives both parents time and authority to make decisions for the child. Before you agree to any plan, it’s important to understand both the benefits and challenges of shared custody. Read on to learn more about shared custody.
What Does Shared Custody Mean in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, “joint custody” means both parents share decision-making rights and time with the child. While physical custody (where the child lives) may not be split 50/50, both parents are expected to stay actively involved in the child’s life.
Louisiana courts start with a presumption that joint custody is in the best interests of the child. However, the court will always prioritize what’s best for the child and may assign one parent as the “domiciliary parent,” who has final say in decisions if parents can’t agree.
Pros of Shared Child Custody
Shared custody can be a positive experience for both children and parents.
Some of the most significant benefits include:
- Helps kids feel more secure: Staying close to both parents can make the divorce easier for children.
- Both parents stay involved: Each parent shares daily tasks, so no one feels overwhelmed.
- Better behavior through teamwork: Parents can agree on rules to keep things the same in both homes.
- Shows kids how to work together: Children learn from seeing their parents cooperate, even after a breakup.
- Gives parents a break: When one parent has the kids, the other can rest and take care of themselves.
These benefits work best when parents are committed to co-parenting respectfully and cooperatively.
Cons of Shared Child Custody
While shared custody has many advantages, it also has drawbacks that can affect your child’s well-being and your daily life.
- Lots of moving around: Going between two homes can be hard on kids, especially younger ones.
- Hard to communicate: If parents don’t get along, shared custody can lead to arguments.
- Different house rules: Kids might get confused if each parent has their own way of doing things.
- Busy schedules: Figuring out drop-offs, pickups, and activities can be tough for both parents.
- Money issues: Sharing custody can affect child support and may not always cover what the child really needs.
It’s important to weigh these concerns carefully when deciding if shared custody fits your family.
What to Consider Before Choosing Shared Custody
Shared custody isn’t ideal for every family. Consider the following before making a decision:
- Parental fitness: If one parent has a history of abuse, neglect, or substance misuse, the court may limit their custody rights.
- The child’s age: Younger children may struggle with frequent transitions, while older children may thrive with equal time.
- Communication skills: Can you and your co-parent talk respectfully and handle disagreements?
- Proximity of homes: Living close together can make shared custody more practical and less stressful.
- Work schedules: Parents with nontraditional hours may find it harder to maintain consistent routines.
- Child’s needs: If your child has medical conditions, learning differences, or emotional needs, consider how shared custody might affect their care.
Louisiana courts are guided by the “best interest of the child” standard, and they evaluate many of these same factors when determining custody arrangements.
Tips for Making Shared Custody Work
Preparation is key if you decide shared custody is right for your child.
Here are a few tips to improve your chances of success:
- Create a detailed parenting plan. Include visitation schedules, decision-making responsibilities, and how to handle emergencies.
- Use tools to stay organized. Co-parenting apps like OurFamilyWizard or shared calendars can help you manage custody exchanges and appointments.
- Stay flexible. Life happens—sickness, work conflicts, traffic. Be willing to adjust when needed.
- Keep communication child-focused. Set boundaries and stay focused on what’s best for your child.
- Don’t speak negatively about your ex in front of your child. It puts them in the middle and can cause long-term emotional harm.
With the right approach, shared custody can be a stable and nurturing solution for your child.
Contact the Shreveport Child Custody Lawyer at Knight Law Firm for Help Today
Making decisions about custody is one of the most important parts of any divorce or separation. If you’re considering a shared custody arrangement in Louisiana, the experienced team at Knight Law Firm is here to help.
We understand the emotional challenges of co-parenting and will work closely with you to protect your rights. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with a trusted child custody lawyer.
Contact our child custody lawyers at Knight Law Firm for a free consultation. We proudly serve Shreveport, Monroe, Ruston, and the surrounding areas of North Louisiana.
Knight Law Firm – Shreveport Office
401 Market Street Suite 1006
Shreveport, LA 71101
(318) 569-8469
Knight Law Firm – Ruston Office
111 Kilgore Rd
Ruston, LA 71270
(318) 722-8919
Knight Law Firm – Monroe Office
1896 Hudson Cir N #1
Monroe, LA 71201
(318) 323-2213
