Child custody battles are usually sensitive for anyone involved in the process in Maryland. In some cases, child custody decisions can become quite difficult to make when there is an income disparity between parents. Luckily, the legal system recognizes this and has measures in place to help couples find the right solution.
What happens when one parent earns significantly more than another?
In child custody cases, the income disparity between two parents can make a big difference in custody arrangements. The courts have to consider the financial needs of each parent when making custody decisions.
Courts have to consider both parents’ incomes before determining how much child support should get paid. If one parent earns significantly more than the other, they may have to pay for their children’s expenses even if it is not in their best interests financially. Additionally, one parent may need to provide health insurance for their children.
Joint custody
In some cases, a court may grant joint custody to both parents if they are cohabiting and earning similar incomes. Joint child custody arrangements can be very beneficial for children because it leads them to have more regular contact with each parent than sole custody agreements do.
Other factors that usually affect child custody battles
Parental income is only one factor used by courts in custody decisions. Other factors considered include each parents’ capabilities and parenting abilities, a history of abuse or drug use, the family’s living circumstances, and the type of custody that would be most beneficial for a child. Ultimately, courts consider the best interests of the child when making custody decisions.
As you can see, the income disparity between parents has an impact on child custody. If you’re going through a divorce and have children, it’s important to understand how your income might affect custody decisions.