Nashville, TN family law attorney Anne Hamer talks about the trends she sees in the area of custody. She explains that since she began practicing divorce law, child custody—now more commonly referred to as parenting time—has evolved significantly. Traditionally, in families with a mother and father, fathers often had weekends and perhaps one weeknight with the children, while mothers retained the majority of parenting time. She notes that this old model is largely outdated.

Today, courts are increasingly willing to grant one parent additional weekend time, resulting in arrangements such as Thursday through Monday with one night during the week. She emphasizes that if both parents are capable of providing equal and productive care in the children’s best interests, many courts now approve 50/50 parenting plans. She has observed these plans being approved repeatedly and highlights the benefits for the children.

She points out that no parent wants to have less time with their children, and courts are recognizing the importance of balancing parenting time whenever possible. She considers this shift a positive development for families, promoting fairness and the well-being of the children involved.