Q: Isn't a 50/50 shared custody arrangement always the most fair to everyone?

A: Not necessarily. In determining custody, the court looks at what is in the best interests of the children. This inquiry takes precedence over the rights of the parents. This is not to say that a custody arrangement where the children spend substantially equal amounts of time with both parents will not be ordered. It often does work, but it is not presumed to be in the best interests of the children. For more information, see the section on the Michigan Custody Factors under the Divorce Overview section of this website.