When you’re going through a divorce or separation in Oklahoma, figuring out the best shared custody schedule can be one of the most emotional and important decisions you make. The court wants to see a custody plan that puts the best interests of the child first, but that plan also needs to be realistic for both parents.

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, but understanding your options and how Oklahoma courts view shared custody can help you create a schedule that works for your family.

What Does Shared Custody Mean in Oklahoma?

In Oklahoma, shared custody typically refers to joint physical custody, where the child spends significant time with both parents. This is different from sole custody, where one parent has the child most of the time and the other may only have visitation.

The goal of shared custody is to allow both parents to remain actively involved in the child’s life, provided that doing so is safe and healthy for the child.

What Makes a Good Shared Custody Schedule?

The best custody schedules are based on details such as:

• The child’s age and developmental needs
• Each parent’s work schedule
• School, extracurricular, and medical needs
• How far apart the parents live
• The ability of the parents to communicate and cooperate

Oklahoma courts focus heavily on what arrangement will provide stability, consistency, and emotional support for the child. Schedules should minimize unnecessary transitions and give the child meaningful time with both parents.

Common Shared Custody Schedules in Oklahoma

Here are some of the most popular and court-approved shared custody schedules used in Oklahoma:

1. Alternating Weeks (50/50)

• Each parent has the child for 7 days at a time.
• Works best for older children and parents with strong communication.

2. 2-2-5-5 Schedule

• Parent A has the child Monday and Tuesday, while parent B has the child Wednesday and Thursday
• Then each parent has alternating 5-day weekends
• Keeps consistent weekday schedules and balances parenting time

3. 3-4-4-3 Schedule

• One parent has the child 3 days, then the other has 4
• The following week, it flips
• Offers frequent contact with both parents while maintaining a routine

4. Alternating Weekends + One Weeknight

• One parent has primary custody, while the other parent has every other weekend and one evening each week
• Often used when one parent has a demanding work schedule or lives farther away

Can the Schedule Be Changed?

Custody schedules can be modified if circumstances change, including:

• A parent moving
• A change in work or school schedules
• Health or behavioral issues affecting the child
• Evidence that the current plan is no longer in the child’s best interest

However, to make a change, you’ll need to file a motion to modify and show that a material change in circumstances has occurred.

Claremore Child Custody Attorneys

Creating a shared custody schedule that meets your child’s needs and respects both parents’ roles isn’t easy—but you don’t have to do it alone. Our Rogers County custody attorneys navigate the legal process and work towards the best outcome for your family. For a free consultation with an attorney at Claremore Attorneys, call 918-379-4872. Or you can click here to ask a free online legal question.