Opinion ID: 1160482
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Divided Custody

Text: Although some courts have awarded divided physical custody, those cases, in contrast to the situation in this case, typically involve parents who reside in the same community. [1] Where parents reside in different parts of the country, an award of divided physical custody may foreclose a stable environment and the development of permanent associations.... John P. McCahey et al., Child Custody and Visitation Law and Practice, § 13.04(2)(1993). Against this backdrop, Robert argues that the divided custody award in this case was an abuse of the court's discretion. Although we regard the question as close, we do not find an abuse of discretion on this record. No evidence was presented that the arrangement was likely to prove harmful to Ryan. Robert requested divided custody, in preference to primary custody in Lisa. Finally, divided custody will terminate when Ryan reaches school age. [2]