Working hours and childcare

David and Véronique lived together for five years and had a little girl named Fanny.
The couple had fallen out and decided to separate.
However, they disagree over custody of Fanny.
Each wanted sole custody.
David and Véronique take their case to court to have a judge rule on the matter.

Véronique works as a secretary in an office and has a daytime schedule during the week.
David, on the other hand, works on a farm and puts in long hours, starting very early in the morning and often finishing late in the evening.

Did you know that the parents’ work schedule can be a determining factor in awarding custody of the children?
In fact, the Court could decide to award custody to Véronique for a number of reasons.
Véronique is the parent who is most available to meet Fanny’s needs.
Not only does her work schedule coincide with daycare hours, but she would also be available in the evenings to spend quality time with her daughter.
Conversely, when Fanny is at her father’s, she has to get ready for school on her own in the morning, as her father has to work on the farm.
What’s more, when she returns from school, she has to join him on the farm and wait for him to finish his work.
This time spent with her father is not quality time.

Although David and Véronique are both good parents capable of assuming custody of Fanny, the Court might prefer to award sole custody to Véronique, with access rights for David, since his work schedule gives him the availability required to ensure Fanny’s physical and psychological development.

If you face such a situation and need further advice, you should consult a lawyer.