Joint Custody in Arkansas: How to Build a Parenting Plan That Works

When parents separate or divorce, one of the most important — and emotional — decisions they face is how to share time and responsibilities for their children. In Arkansas, the courts favor joint custody whenever possible. But what does that really mean, and how can you make sure your parenting arrangement works for everyone involved?

Let’s break it down.

What is Joint Custody in Arkansas?

Joint custody means that both parents share not only physical time with their child but also decision-making authority over major aspects of the child’s life — including education, healthcare, and general welfare.

Since 2021, Arkansas law presumes that joint custody is in the best interest of the child at the start of every new custody case. That means courts will generally expect parents to share time equally unless there’s a very good reason not to — such as concerns about safety, neglect, or serious communication breakdowns.

It’s important to know:

• This presumption only applies to new cases filed after the law took effect.
• Existing custody orders from before 2021 are not automatically changed.

What Does a Joint Custody Schedule Look Like?

Joint custody doesn’t mean there’s only one way to split time. In fact, Arkansas courts encourage parents to find a schedule that fits their child’s needs and family circumstances.

Common joint custody setups include:

• Alternating weeks: One week with Parent A, the next with Parent B.
• 5-2-2-5 rotation: One parent gets Monday-Tuesday, the other gets Wednesday-Thursday, and weekends alternate.

• Custom plans: Shorter rotations, longer holiday blocks, or special accommodations for school or activities.

  Every family’s schedule can look different — and that’s where a solid parenting plan becomes essential.

Why You Need a Parenting Plan

A parenting plan is a detailed written agreement that outlines exactly how custody, visitation, holidays, decision-making, and conflict resolution will work between the parents.

A strong parenting plan addresses key questions like:

• Where will the child live during the school year?
• How will holidays and summer vacations be divided?
• How will parents handle decisions about medical care or education?
• What happens if one parent needs to move or modify the schedule?

Without a thorough plan in place, misunderstandings can quickly lead to conflict — and conflicts can turn into costly court battles. That’s why working with an experienced family law attorney to craft a parenting plan is so important. A well-prepared parenting plan can help prevent future disputes, protect your rights, and, most importantly, support your child's well-being.

Is Child Support Still Required in Joint Custody?

Even if parents share physical custody 50/50, child support may still be ordered based on the parents’ respective incomes and the child's needs.

For example:

• If one parent earns significantly more than the other, the court may require the higher-earning parent to pay support to help maintain the child’s standard of living across both households.
• Child support calculations in Arkansas also consider things like health insurance, daycare expenses, and extracurricular activities.

Navigating these calculations can be tricky — especially in a joint custody setup — so it’s wise to have an attorney review your financial situation and explain your rights and obligations.

Final Thoughts

Joint custody offers a great opportunity for children to maintain strong relationships with both parents after a separation — but it works best when built on a clear, detailed parenting plan and a cooperative approach.

If you’re facing a custody case in Arkansas, having the right legal guidance from the start can make a world of difference. An attorney can help you:

• Understand your options,
• Negotiate a parenting schedule that fits your family's needs,
• Draft a strong parenting plan, and
• Protect your rights if disputes arise later.

Need help with a custody case or parenting plan? We’re here to help you build a plan that works for your family — and protects your child’s best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.