Every Other Weekend Schedule
A traditional custody arrangement where children spend alternating weekends with the non-custodial parent and all weekdays with the custodial parent.
What is the Every Other Weekend Schedule?
The every other weekend (EOW) schedule is one of the most common custody arrangements. Children live primarily with one parent (the custodial parent) and spend alternating weekends with the other parent (the non-custodial parent). Weekends typically run from Friday evening to Sunday evening.
How It Works
Here's what a typical two-week cycle looks like:
Parent A has the child during weekdays. Parent B has the child every other weekend.
Overnight Breakdown
| Parent | Overnights/Year | Percentage |
|---|---|---|
| Custodial Parent (A) | ~313 | 86% |
| Non-Custodial Parent (B) | ~52 | 14% |
Important Note
With only 52 overnights per year, the every other weekend schedule does NOT qualify as shared custody in most states. This affects child support calculations.
Shared Custody Thresholds
Here's how EOW compares to shared custody thresholds in various states:
| State | Threshold | EOW Qualifies? |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | 92 overnights | No (52) |
| New Jersey | 104 overnights | No (52) |
| Florida | 73 overnights (20%) | No (52) |
| Virginia | 90 days | No (52) |
Pros
- Simple and predictable for everyone
- Minimal disruption to school routines
- Fewer exchanges and transitions
- Works when parents live far apart
- Child has one primary home base
Cons
- Non-custodial parent has very limited time
- Child may go 12+ days without seeing one parent
- Does not qualify as shared custody for support calculations
- Non-custodial parent misses weekday activities
- Can feel unequal and lead to relationship strain
Adding Weeknight Time
Many families add a midweek overnight or dinner visit to increase the non-custodial parent's time:
- EOW + 1 weeknight overnight: ~100 overnights (may qualify as shared)
- EOW + 2 weeknight overnights: ~126 overnights (qualifies in most states)
- EOW + Wednesday dinner: Maintains connection without overnight
Frequently Asked Questions
How many overnights is every other weekend?
Every other weekend equals approximately 52 overnights per year (26 weekends × 2 nights), or about 14% of the year.
Is every other weekend considered shared custody?
No. Every other weekend (52 overnights) falls well below shared custody thresholds in all states. Most states require 90+ overnights for shared custody treatment.
How can I increase my parenting time from EOW?
Consider adding midweek overnights. One Wednesday overnight brings you to ~100 overnights/year, which qualifies as shared custody in many states including Maryland.
What does EOW mean in custody?
EOW stands for "Every Other Weekend" — a custody arrangement where the child spends alternating weekends with the non-custodial parent.
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