Chances of my ex getting full custody?

Hey guys, I’m feeling a bit anxious about my situation. My ex and I have been doing 50/50 custody for almost 2 years, but we never put it in writing until now. I just filed a petition to formalize it, and I don’t want any child support or changes. I’m worried he might try for full custody even though things have been working fine. Do I need a lawyer for this process? What are my chances of him getting full custody?

Honestly, it’s unlikely he’d get full custody. You’d have to really mess up for that to happen. Just stay calm.

Zeek said:
Honestly, it’s unlikely he’d get full custody. You’d have to really mess up for that to happen. Just stay calm.

That’s good to hear! I just worry since he might get a lawyer and I’m not sure what to expect.

Right? It seems like custody should default to 50/50 unless there’s a good reason to change it. Why should one parent get more time?

Check out local family law clinics; they can give you advice for cheap. Seriously, having a lawyer is a good idea since he might have one.

Legally, he might have to pay child support, even with 50/50 custody. Just be prepared for that if he gets a lawyer.

Scout said:
Legally, he might have to pay child support, even with 50/50 custody. Just be prepared for that if he gets a lawyer.

Wait, even with 50/50? How does that work?

Jules said:

Scout said:
Legally, he might have to pay child support, even with 50/50 custody. Just be prepared for that if he gets a lawyer.

Wait, even with 50/50? How does that work?

If there’s a big income difference, the lower earner could get support. But if you’re both on the same page, it might not be an issue!

I doubt the court would change what’s been working for 2 years. Just keep documenting everything to show the judge how it’s been going.

Orion said:
I doubt the court would change what’s been working for 2 years. Just keep documenting everything to show the judge how it’s been going.

That makes sense! I’ll definitely keep track of everything.

Are you guys on the same page about the childcare situation? That might be a sticking point if you’re using different providers.

Landry said:
Are you guys on the same page about the childcare situation? That might be a sticking point if you’re using different providers.

Yeah, we have different daycare providers. It’s been okay so far, but I’m worried he’ll want to change things.

@Jules
That could be an issue. It’s better for the child to be in one consistent daycare. You might want to discuss that with him.