Which factor reduces the likelihood of an award of joint custody?

• A. The parents' ability to cooperate in the decision-making process
• B. The parents' incomes
• C. The child's age
• D. The distance between residences

Answer: (A)

Joint custody is awarded when parents can effectively share decision-making and communicate well about the child’s needs. The key factor is the parents’ ability to cooperate in making important decisions—education, health, religion, and daily caregiving matters. When that cooperation is lacking, the court is concerned that joint decision-making would lead to conflicts and harm the child's well-being, so the likelihood of joint custody decreases. Incomes, the child’s age, or how far apart the parents live can affect practical arrangements, but they don’t by themselves determine whether joint custody will be awarded.