Making an Indiana Custody Schedule

Making a child custody schedule that will work is essential. You need to follow the custody laws in your state so that the court will accept your custody schedule. If you live in Indiana, you can create a schedule that supports your custody arrangements. The Indiana Code, Title 31, Article 17 has regulations about child custody. Knowing and understanding these laws is one of the first steps in developing your schedule. Indiana regulations apply to all aspects of your custody schedule including:

• The residential schedule that shows where your child is during the week and on weekends;

• The holiday schedule that shows where your child spends holidays;

• The special occasion schedule that shows where your child spends school breaks, vacations, birthdays and other special events; and

• Extra provisions and information that helps your schedule run smoothly and work effectively.

The laws in Indiana do not have specific requirements for any part of a custody schedule so you have the flexibility to customize your schedule so it fits your child's needs. Article 31-17, 2-8 specifies that a custody schedule must be made in accordance with the child's best interests. You need to consider what is best for your child as you create your schedule. Some factors that the court considers that affect the welfare of your child are:

• Your child's gender and age.

• Each parent's wishes regarding custody.

• Your child's wishes regarding custody. The Indiana court gives more consideration to a child who is fourteen years old and older.

• Your child's relationships with both parents, siblings and other important people. Relationships that benefit your child should be continued.

• How your child is acclimated to his/her home, school and community.

• The physical and mental health of all people involved in your child's life.

• Any history or evidence of domestic violence or abuse by either parent.

Usually when parents are able to cooperate and create a custody schedule together, the court will accept it. If you place your child's needs and welfare first, you can create an effective Indiana custody schedule that the court will accept.