Mediate Michigan

Newsweek has published an excellent article on the state of divorce today, the increased involvement of Fathers and joint custodial arrangements.  The article can be found here.

Among the topics the article discusses are the pros and cons of joint physical custody.  The article notes:

“Still, joint custody may not be for every family. Paul Amato, a leading researcher on the subject and a professor of sociology at Pennsylvania State University, argues that because joint custody is generally granted to parents who request it and are cooperative with each other, it’s unclear whether it would work for every couple. Forcing uncooperative couples into a joint arrangement could end up creating more parental conflict, which most experts agree is the most damaging part of a divorce for kids. “I do not think it’s a good idea to impose joint physical custody on unwilling parents,” he says. “This strategy is likely to do more harm than good.”

Something parents should consider is that, except in cases involving domestic violence or other extreme circumstances, it is almost never a good idea to fight over custody and visitation of your children.  No matter how well intentioned, Judges, custody evaluators and other experts used by the court don’t know you, your family or your children and they simply don’t have the time or the resources to get to know your family.  If you and your spouse are finding it difficult to fashion a custody and visitation agreement mediation is an excellent alternative to going to court.  A mediated custody and visitation agreement allows the people who know your children best to decide how your family moves on post-divorce.