What’s the Difference Between Child Custody, Parenting Time, and Decision Making?

In the realm of family law, terminology can often be confusing, especially with recent amendments to legislation. With the new Divorce Act amendments, the term "custody" is no longer used to describe parenting and decision-making responsibilities. However, many people still search for information using the term "custody." 

This post will clarify the differences between custody, parenting time, and decision-making, explain the changes brought by the Divorce Act amendments, and provide an overview of how these terms apply in Alberta, Canada.

From Custody to Parenting Time and Decision Making

Historically, the term "custody" was used to describe both the time a parent spent with their child and the authority to make decisions regarding the child’s welfare. The recent amendments to the Divorce Act have replaced "custody" with more specific terms: "parenting time" and "decision-making responsibility."

• Parenting Time: This term refers to the actual time a child spends with each parent. It encompasses the day-to-day care and supervision of the child during that time.
• Decision-Making Responsibility: This refers to the authority to make significant decisions about the child's life, such as those related to education, health care, and religious upbringing.

Why the Change?

The amendments to the Divorce Act were designed to reflect modern parenting arrangements more accurately and to reduce conflict by focusing on the roles and responsibilities of each parent rather than on ownership or control. The shift from "custody" to "parenting time" and "decision-making responsibility" emphasizes cooperation and the best interests of the child.

The Focus on Shared Parenting

Shared parenting arrangements are now more common and are encouraged to ensure that both parents remain actively involved in their child’s life. Shared parenting can contribute to better outcomes for the child, including improved emotional well-being and stronger relationships with both parents.

Factors Considered in Determining Parenting Arrangements

When determining parenting arrangements, several factors are considered to ensure the best interests of the child, including:

• The child's physical, emotional, and psychological needs
• The child's relationship with each parent
• The child's preferences, depending on their age and maturity
• The ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs
• Any history of family violence or abuse
• The willingness of each parent to support the child's relationship with the other parent

Types of Parenting Time in Alberta

In Alberta, there are different types of parenting time arrangements, including:

• Parenting Time: This is the regular, scheduled time a parent spends with their child. It can be shared equally or divided in a way that reflects the best interests of the child.
• Supervised Parenting Time: In situations where there are concerns about the child's safety, parenting time may be supervised by a third party to ensure the child's well-being.
• No Parenting Time: In extreme cases, a parent may be denied parenting time if it is deemed to be in the best interest of the child due to safety concerns.

Types of Decision-Making Responsibilities in Alberta

There are also different types of decision-making responsibilities:

• Sole Decision-Making Responsibility: One parent has the authority to make all significant decisions regarding the child's welfare. This is usually granted in cases where it is in the best interest of the child.
• Joint Decision-Making Responsibility: Both parents share the authority to make significant decisions about the child's life. This arrangement requires effective communication and cooperation between the parents.
• Split Decision-Making Responsibility: In some cases, decision-making responsibilities may be divided between the parents, with each parent having authority over specific areas (e.g., one parent may make educational decisions, while the other makes medical decisions).

Consult with a family law professional to navigate these changes effectively.

Understanding the differences between custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities is crucial for parents navigating the complexities of separation or divorce. The amendments to the Divorce Act have modernized the terminology to better reflect contemporary parenting roles and focus on the best interests of the child. 

By fostering shared parenting arrangements and clear decision-making responsibilities, these changes aim to support the well-being and development of children in separated families.

Contact us for assistance with your case, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your children. Book your consultation today!