Correct Answer: split custody in the given scenario, bob and annabella, who are divorced, have three children: two teenagers, cal and carla, who live with bob in oregon, and a toddler, lori, who lives with annabella in maryland. this arrangement is an example of split custody.
split custody is a type of child custody arrangement that occurs when divorced or separated parents divide the physical custody of their children such that each parent has full-time custody of different children. in this case, bob has full-time custody of cal and carla, while annabella has full-time custody of lori. unlike shared or joint custody, where children spend substantial time living with each parent, split custody does not typically involve the children moving between homes.
the main characteristic of split custody is that siblings are separated by living arrangements, each with a different parent. this type of custody is less common than other forms because it can lead to siblings having less frequent interactions and potentially weakening their bonds. however, it may be chosen for various reasons, including the specific needs or preferences of each child, geographic distance between parents, or other logistical or personal considerations that make this arrangement the most viable.
it is important to note that split custody is different from shared custody or joint custody:
- **shared custody:** both parents have substantial, but not necessarily equal, physical custody of the child or children. this arrangement involves children spending a significant amount of time with each parent.
- **joint custody:** this can refer to joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both. in joint legal custody, parents share decision-making responsibilities regarding the child's upbringing. in joint physical custody, children spend relatively equal amounts of time with each parent.
in conclusion, the custody arrangement described in the scenario where bob and annabella each have custody of different children without the children regularly switching between homes is classified as split custody. this arrangement allows each parent to maintain a stable living environment for the children in their care, though it also means that the siblings live apart from each other.
|