There is no presumption that both parents should have equal time with their children. Every family is different, so there are no set standards for childcare once a family splits. The care arrangements for each child will depend on several factors, including the child’s age. Older children may have a say in their care arrangements.
There is however a presumption that both parents should make decisions for their children together. This is called ‘equal shared parental responsibility’. In some cases, this assumption will not apply, such as in situations involving domestic violence and child abuse.
If a court orders equal shared parental responsibility, it must consider whether an order for the child to spend equal time with both parents is appropriate.