Determining a child custody schedule that works for everyone becomes crucial when parents separate or divorce. In Michigan, a 70/30 custody arrangement means one parent has the child for 70 percent of the time while the other has 30 percent. This might sound straightforward enough, but what does this really look like in practice?
What is a 70/30 Custody Schedule?
In a 70/30 custody schedule, the primary custodial parent typically has about 261 overnights per year, while the other parent has around 104. This schedule usually breaks down into a “5-2” pattern, where one parent has the child during the school week, and the other has the weekend time. However, this is not the only option. Popular schedules include:
- Every weekend schedule – In this most popular 70/30 arrangement, one parent has weekday custody while the other has all weekends.
- Five-two split – Similar to the weekend schedule, but can start on any day to accommodate work schedules.
Factors That Make the 70/30 Custody Schedule Work
Several situations might make a 70/30 custody schedule the right choice, particularly when parents agree that the child benefits from having a primary home base. For example, this option is beneficial when one parent lives farther from the child’s school or when work schedules make equal custody challenging.
For a 70/30 schedule to succeed, parents should:
- Maintain clear communication about schedule changes
- Stay flexible when unexpected situations arise
- Keep focused on their child’s best interests
- Document agreements and stick to the established schedule
Need Help Creating a Custody Schedule That Works?
Every family’s situation is unique, and finding a suitable custody arrangement takes careful consideration. At The Smith Law Offices, P.C., we understand the emotional and logistical challenges of custody arrangements. Let us help you create a schedule that works for your family. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your custody needs.
