1. What is Parenting Time Percentage?

Parenting time percentage is a calculation used in California family law to determine the amount of time a child spends with each parent. This percentage is important for establishing child support obligations and parenting plans.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard California formula:

Where:

• Days with Parent — Number of days the child spends with the specific parent
• Total Days — Total number of days in the custody period (typically 365 for annual calculation)

Explanation: This simple calculation provides the percentage of time the child spends with each parent, which is a key factor in California child support calculations.

3. Importance of Parenting Time Calculation

Details: In California, parenting time percentage directly impacts child support calculations. Generally, the parent with less than 50% timeshare may receive child support from the other parent. Accurate calculation is essential for fair child support orders.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the number of days the child spends with the parent and the total days in the custody period. Typically, this is calculated annually (365 days) but can be adjusted for different custody periods.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How is overnight time calculated?
A: In California, parenting time is typically calculated based on overnight stays. Each overnight counts as one full day of parenting time.

Q2: What if parenting time varies throughout the year?
A: For variable schedules, calculate the average number of days per year. You may need to track time over several months to establish an accurate annual average.

Q3: How does parenting time affect child support?
A: California uses a complex formula where parenting time percentage is a major factor. Generally, as the timeshare decreases below 50%, child support obligations increase.

Q4: Are there different rules for holiday and vacation time?
A: Holiday and vacation time is typically included in the overall calculation. Special periods are generally factored into the annual total rather than calculated separately.

Q5: Should I consult with an attorney about my parenting time calculation?
A: Yes, while this calculator provides a basic percentage, child support calculations involve additional factors. It's recommended to consult with a family law attorney for precise calculations and legal advice.