Why would a judge not grant 50/50 custody?

A judge denies 50/50 custody when it does not serve the child's best interests Courts prioritize the child's well-being above all else when determining custody arrangements. A judge may reject equal parenting time for several significant reasons: Parental stability concerns , including inconsistent housing, employment, or lifestyle issues Geographic distance between parents that would disrupt the child's schooling or routine History of family violence or substance abuse that poses safety risks Demonstrated inability of parents to communicate or cooperate effectively Child's established routine and emotional bonds with primary caregiver Special needs of the child that one parent is better equipped to handle

Judge Denies 50/50 Custody: Child's Best Interests First

A judge denies 50/50 custody when it does not serve the child’s best interests

Courts prioritize the child’s well-being above all else when determining custody arrangements. A judge may reject equal parenting time for several significant reasons:

Parental stability concerns, including inconsistent housing, employment, or lifestyle issues
Geographic distance between parents that would disrupt the child’s schooling or routine
History of family violence or substance abuse that poses safety risks
Demonstrated inability of parents to communicate or cooperate effectively
Child’s established routine and emotional bonds with primary caregiver
Special needs of the child that one parent is better equipped to handle