子育て｜離婚後の共同親権がもたらす変化 / Parenting | Changes Brought About by Joint Custody After Divorce

Summary

Starting from April 1, 2026, the revised Civil Code will allow for “joint custody,” enabling parents to share parental rights after a divorce.

This change may provide children with a better opportunity to maintain a positive relationship with both parents. However, it also raises concerns for victims of domestic violence, who may face anxiety about potential harassment. It is important to clarify the differences between joint custody and sole custody, as well as the impact on children’s daily lives.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Chako: Hey Log, what does joint custody mean?
Log: Joint custody is a system where both parents share parental rights after a divorce. Unlike sole custody, it allows parents to be involved in their child’s life together.
Chako: That sounds like a good thing for the child! But what about cases involving domestic violence?
Log: That’s a concern. Victims of domestic violence can feel anxious about being stalked or harassed. So, how the system is implemented is really important.
Navi: It’s crucial to note that while introducing joint custody increases parental involvement in a child’s life, it also comes with risks.
Chako: I see, there’s a lot to think about!

Admin’s Note

I believe that the introduction of joint custody presents a significant opportunity for children to receive love from both parents. However, we must not overlook the concerns of domestic violence victims. While this should be a system designed to protect children, it requires careful implementation. In particular, support for parents sharing custody and raising awareness about the system are crucial. I found it particularly striking in the conversation between Chako and Log that we need to value the child’s perspective while also being mindful of the associated risks.