When parents separate, one of the most important—and often emotional—considerations is how to care for their children moving forward. As family lawyers in BC, we regularly assist separated parents in understanding how parenting arrangements are structured under the law.

Two terms often cause confusion: parenting time and decision-making responsibility. Knowing the difference—and how courts apply the best interests of the child standard—can help you create a parenting arrangement that supports your child’s well-being and stability.

What Is Parenting Time?

Parenting time is the period when a child is in the care of a parent or guardian. It includes:

  • Day-to-day care and supervision 
  • Routine decisions (such as meals, bedtime, and discipline during that time) 
  • The child’s physical presence with that parent 

Parenting time can be scheduled in many ways: alternating weeks, splitting weeks, or having one parent provide the majority of care with scheduled time for the other.

Important: Parenting time is not just about quantity—it’s about quality and ensuring the arrangement meets the child’s developmental and emotional needs.

What Is Decision-Making Responsibility?

Decision-making responsibility is the authority to make significant decisions about a child’s life, including:

  • Education 
  • Medical care 
  • Religion or spiritual upbringing 
  • Extracurricular activities 

Parents may share this responsibility, or it may be granted solely to one parent. It does not have to match the division of parenting time.

In BC, this term replaced the older “custody” language under the Divorce Act.

How Courts Apply the Best Interests of the Child

The guiding principle in all parenting decisions under BC’s Family Law Act is the best interests of the child, prioritizing their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Courts consider factors such as:

  • The child’s health and developmental needs 
  • The strength of the child’s relationship with each parent 
  • The history of care and parenting roles 
  • The child’s views and preferences (depending on age and maturity) 
  • Each parent’s willingness to support the child’s relationship with the other parent 
  • Any history of family violence or substance abuse 

The aim is to protect the child’s development, foster stability, and allow for healthy relationships with both parents when possible.

Flexible Parenting Arrangements

No single arrangement works for every family. Courts encourage parents to reach their own agreements—informally, through mediation, or with the assistance of lawyers.

If an agreement cannot be reached, the court will make an order based on evidence and the child’s best interests. Common arrangements include:

  • Shared parenting time (roughly equal time with each parent) 
  • Primary residence with one parent and scheduled time for the other 
  • Joint decision-making responsibility 
  • Sole decision-making responsibility when one parent is better positioned to act in the child’s best interests 

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Assuming equal time is always best – It works only if both parents can provide stable, supportive care. 
  • Treating parenting time as a legal entitlement – The focus must remain on the child’s needs, not parental fairness. 
  • Poor communication – Ongoing conflict can harm the child and make shared parenting unworkable. 
  • Ignoring the child’s perspective – Older children’s preferences may significantly influence court decisions. 

The Role of Parenting Plans

Many parents find it helpful to set out arrangements in a parenting plan, detailing:

  • Parenting time schedules 
  • Decision-making responsibilities 
  • Communication methods 
  • Transition protocols between households 

These plans can be included in a separation agreement or made into a court order.

Essential Guidance at a Glance

  • Parenting time = when the child is with each parent. 
  • Decision-making responsibility = who makes major life decisions for the child. 
  • Courts base decisions on the best interests of the child, not on what either parent feels is fair. 
  • Flexibility, communication, and prioritizing the child’s needs are key to a successful arrangement. 
  • Parenting plans and mediation can reduce conflict and provide clarity. 

How a Family Lawyer Can Help

A lawyer can explain your legal rights and responsibilities, guide you in creating a fair and practical parenting plan, and represent you in mediation or court.

We can also help you avoid common pitfalls, draft clear agreements, and ensure your arrangements meet legal standards while focusing on your child’s long-term well-being.

ALG Lawyers: Supporting Families in Abbotsford, Surrey & Vancouver

At ALG Lawyers, we provide comprehensive support for parenting arrangements, decision-making responsibility disputes, and all areas of family law.

Whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation, we work to protect your rights and your child’s future.

If you are navigating separation in Abbotsford, Surrey, or Vancouver, our experienced team is here to help. Contact ALG Lawyers today to arrange a consultation and take the first step toward a parenting arrangement that works for your family.

 

Additional Reading

To learn more about family law and parenting arrangements in BC, you may find the following pages on our site helpful: