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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Howerton v. Howerton}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , Opinion \tab \tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs20\insrsid3548557 PAGE }}{\fldrslt {
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid12146352 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 NOELLA CARTER HOWERTON,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Plaintiff-Appellee,
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 v.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 JOHN W. HOWERTON,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Defendant-Appellant.}{\insrsid12146352 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Cite as: 2004 Guam 8}{\insrsid12146352 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Supreme Court Case No.: CVA03-003
\par Superior Court Case No.: DM0419-02}{\ul\insrsid12146352 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Argued and submitted on November 4, 2003
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam}{\insrsid12146352 
\par 
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\par }{\ul\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appearing for Plaintiff-Appellee:}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Noella Carter Howerton, }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Pro Se}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par 123 S. Melindes Court, Liguan Terrace 
\par Dededo, Guam 96929\cell 
\par }{\ul\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appearing for Defendant-Appellant:}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Seaton M. Woodley, III, }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Esq}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .
\par Ste. 102, Tanaka Bldg., Rte. 4
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910\cell }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\intbl\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \trowd \irow0\irowband0\lastrow 
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\par }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 BEFORE: F. PHILIP CARBULLIDO, Chief Justice; FRANCES M. TYDINGCO-GATEWOOD, Associate Justice; RAMONA V. MANGLONA, Justice }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Pro Tempore}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 TYDINGCO-GATEWOOD, J.:}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [1]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The Defendant-Appellant, John W. Howerton (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
), appeals from an order granting him joint legal and physical custody of his minor child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Howerton argues that the lower court erred in granting him joint physical custody but failing to order equal custodial time between him and the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s mother, the Plaintiff-Appellee Noella Carter Howerton}{\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
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 The case caption identifies the Plaintiff-Appellant as Noella Carter Howerton.  During a hearing regarding this matter, the Plaintiff-Appellant informed the court that her name has been changed to Noella Carter.}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  (}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Carter}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton further argues that in giving more custodial time to Carter, the lower court erroneously applied the }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 tender years doctrine.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 We find that under a joint physical custody plan, equal time, 
while preferred, is not required, and that in considering deviation from an equal time arrangement, the trial court may properly consider the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
We find that the custody order was supported by substantial evidence.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 We further find that the trial court did not apply the tender years doctrine in this case.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Accordingly, we affirm the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision. 
\par 
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\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [2]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The instant appeal arises out of a divorce-related dispute concerning custody of the parties}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  minor child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Carter and Howerton were married on Guam in 1998.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton is employed with the United States Army with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and is the Inspector General for the Guam National Guard.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Carter is a senior flight attendant for Continental Micronesia.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Together they have one child who was born on April 22, 1999.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Carter has two other children from previous relationships.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton does not have any other children.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The parties separated on July 3, 2002, and sought a divorce on the ground of irreconcilable differences.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 They agreed to everything with the exception of the custody of their child.}{\insrsid12146352  }
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The court, at an Order to Show Cause hearing on September 20, 2002, ordered visitation }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 pendente lite}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, giving Howerton visitation with the child on Tuesdays and Thursdays after work, and from Saturday mornings until Sunday evenings on weekends that he was not working.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Carter was given custody of the child during the remaining time.}{\insrsid12146352 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [3]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 At a bench trial on January 31, 2003, the court accepted testimony on the issue of custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Carter argued for sole legal and physical custody, while Howerton proposed a joint physical custody plan wherein the child would live with each parent on a week on, week off basis.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The lower court announced its decision regarding custody from the bench, and thereafter, on February 27, 2003, issued an Interlocutory Decree of Dissolution [with] Findings of Facts [and] Conclusions of Law, incorporating its prior bench ruling.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 As set forth in the Interlocutory Decree, the court found that the parties were }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 equally fit to serve as parents of the minor child with respect to finances, maturity, and emotional support.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s Excerpts of Record, Tab A, p. 3 (Interlocutory Decree of Dissolution, Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, Feb. 27, 2003).}{\super\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The court ordered that both parents shall have }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 joint legal and physical custody of their minor child,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and further ordered that custody be as follows: The child would reside with Carter, with Howerton }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 having visitation in accordance with the following schedule:}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [1]\tab Tuesday and Thursday Evening from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [2]\tab 
Weekends, when [Howerton] . . . does not have drill or other full time duty, from 9:30 am Saturday until 8:00 pm on Sunday
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-720\li2160\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [3]\tab Weekends, when [Howerton] has drill or full time duty, Saturday and Sunday from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s Excerpts of Record, Tab A, pp. 5-6 (Interlocutory Decree of Dissolution, Findings of Fact, Conclusions of Law, Feb. 27, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s custody decision was essentially the same as the custody arrangement which was imposed }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 pendente lite}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }{\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [4]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 A Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage was filed on February 27, 2003, which incorporated the Interlocutory Decree by reference.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s Excerpts of Record, Tab B, p. 1 (Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage, Feb. 27, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Both the Interlocutory and Final Decrees were entered on the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s docket.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton appealed both decrees.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par 
\par }\pard\plain \s2\qc \li0\ri0\keep\keepn\nowidctlpar\faauto\outlinelevel1\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \b\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 II.
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\keep\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [5]}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
This court has jurisdiction over appeals from child custody orders}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  pursuant to Title 7 GCA }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  3107(b).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser v. Lanser}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8 (citing }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Flores v. Cruz}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8).
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 III.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 A. Standard of Review.
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [6]}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \tab We review child custody orders for an abuse of discretion, keeping in mind the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8, 15; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Flores v. Cruz}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also In re Marriage of Condon}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 73 Cal. Rptr. 2d 33, 44 (Ct. App. 1998) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The standard of appellate review of custody and visitation orders is the deferential abuse of discretion test.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Under this standard, we do not substitute our own judgment for that of the trial court; instead, we determine }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 whether substantial evidence supports the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  15;}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  see also Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Substantial evidence is relevant evidence that a reasonable person may accept as sufficient to support a conclusion, even if inconsistent conclusions may be drawn from the evidence.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  18 (quoting }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 B.M. Co. v. Avery}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2002 Guam 19, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  13); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Condon}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 73 Cal. Rptr. 2d at 44 (defining the test as }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
whether the trial court could have reasonably concluded that the order in question advanced the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
best interests}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  of the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 B. The Parties}{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  Arguments.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 

\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [7]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton presents two issues on appeal relating to the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision regarding custodial time.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The first is that the lower court erred in failing to give Howerton equal time with the child where the court awarded the parties joint physical custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The second issue relates to the trial court}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision in granting Carter more time with the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton argues that in failing to grant equal time, the lower court erroneously applied the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 child of tender years}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 standard, which according to Howerton, does not apply under Guam law.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 He further argues that even assuming the doctrine was applicable in Guam, the doctrine is 
inapplicable where the mother does not stay at home caring for the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Howerton contends that the doctrine is inapplicable in this case because Carter is a career flight attendant and is not a stay-at-home mother. 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [8]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 On appeal, Carter argues that the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision regarding custody was correct.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Carter essentially re-asserts much of the testimony which was presented during the lower court hearing on the custody issue.}{
\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\insrsid3548557  }{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 For purposes of deciding this appeal, we do not consider any facts Carter raised in her brief and during oral argument which are not part of the lower court}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 s record.}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 C. Discussion.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 1.}{\b\insrsid12146352  }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Equal Time.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [9]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton argues that the lower court erred in finding that the parties should have joint physical custody but thereafter awarding him less than equal time with the child.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In discussing the issue, it is first relevant to describe the various legally recognized joint custody arrangements, as well as the type of arrangements contemplated under Guam law.
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [10]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 As this court has previously stated in }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores v. Cruz}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , joint custody is }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 generally understood as a custody arrangement tha
t places both legal and physical custody of a child in the hands of both parents.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  9.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  court further described a joint custody arrangement as permitting both parents to }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 participate in reaching major decisions affecting the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s welfare.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 As defined in }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, joint custody appears to include both physical and legal custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [11]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 It has been clarified that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 properly analyzed, joint custody is comprised of two elements--legal custody and physical custody . . . .}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Pascale v. Pascale}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 660 A.2d 485, 491 (N.J. 1995)}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (quoting }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Beck v. Beck,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  86 }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 N.J.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  480, 486, 432 }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 A.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
2d 63 (1981)) (internal brackets omitted).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Other courts have similarly held that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [e]mbraced within the meaning of }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 custody}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  are the concepts of }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 legal}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 physical}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  custody.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Taylor v. Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d 964, 967 (Md. App. 1986).}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 This court has discussed issues related to custody in }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores v. Cruz}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  3-7, and more recently in }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser v. Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14.}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Neither the }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 court nor the }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  court differentiated between the concepts of joint }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 physical}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and joint }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 legal}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  custody. }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Lanser}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14;}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30.}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Moreover, Guam statutes do not define either arrangement.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  10 (identifying Title 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404, entitled }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Criteria and Procedure in Awarding Custody,}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  as the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 principle custody statute}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 under Guam law).}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The concepts of physical and legal custody are, in fact, distinct, and courts often find it }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 helpful to contrast joint legal custody with joint physical custody.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 McCarty v. McCarty}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 807 A.2d 1211, 1213 (Md. Ct. Spec. App. 2002).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
For purposes of analyzing the issue in the present case, it is similarly helpful to distinguish the two.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d at 966}{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
While it is clear that both parents in a joint custody arrangement function as }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 custodians}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 in the sense that they are actually involved in the overall welfare of their child, a distinction must be made between sharing parental responsibility in major decision-making matters and sharing responsibility for providing a home for the child.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Pascale}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 660 A.2d at 491 (reaffirming the importance in }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
break[ing] down the term joint custody into legal and physical custody in reviewing a court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s determination of child support}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Elsome v. Elsome}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 601 N.W.2d 537, 544 (Neb. 1999) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Many, 
if not most, states that have defined joint custody differentiate between joint legal and joint physical custody.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [12]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Courts have defined joint legal custody as carrying with it }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 the right and obligation to make long range decisions involving education, religious training, discipline, medical care, and other matters of major significance concerning the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s life and welfare.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d at 967; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Pascale}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 660 A.2d at 491 (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Joint legal custody, mean[s] the authority and responsibility for making major decisions regarding the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s welfare.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (internal quotation marks and citation omitted).}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Joint legal custody means that both parents have an equal 
voice in making those decisions, and {\*\bkmkstart Document0zzSDUNumber14}{\*\bkmkend Document0zzSDUNumber14}neither parent}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s rights are superior to the other.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Taylor}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d at 967; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Brown v. Brown}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 621 N.W.2d 70, 77 (Neb. 2000)}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Joint legal custody has been generally defined as joint authority and responsibility for making }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 major}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  decisions regarding the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s welfare.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (internal quotation marks and citation omitted).}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [13]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 By contrast, joint physical custody }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 means the right and obligation to provide a home for the child and to make the day-to-day decisions required during the time the child is actually with the parent having such custody.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d at 967; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Brown}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 621 N.W.2d at 77 (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
In contrast [to joint legal custody], joint physical custody has been described as joint responsibility for }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 minor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  day-to-day decisions . . . .}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (internal quotation marks, citations and internal brackets omitted); }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Pascale}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 660 A.2d at 491-92.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Moreover, under a joint physical custody arrangement, there exists an }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 exertion of continuous physical custody by both parents over a child for significant periods of time.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Brown}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 621 N.W.2d at 77 
(citation omitted); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 508 A.2d at 967 (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Joint physical custody is in reality }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 shared}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  or }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 divided}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  custody.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\*\bkmkstart Document0zzFN_B0055}{\*\bkmkend Document0zzFN_B0055}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid12146352 
{\*\bkmkstart Document0zzSDUNumber15}{\*\bkmkend Document0zzSDUNumber15} }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [14]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The child custody statutes are found in Title 19 of the Guam Code Annotated.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Title 19 GCA }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404 governs child custody in divorce cases.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
However, as was previously recognized by this court, the section does not specifically address joint custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  10.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Rather, the section speaks in terms such as 
}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 custodial parent}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
non-custodial parent.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Title 19 GCA }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h) (1994) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [I]n determining visitation of minor children on Guam with}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  non-custodial parents}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 living on Guam, the court shall, to the greatest degree possible, order visitation for minor children (pendente lite and permanently) with non-custodial parents such that the children spend more or less equal amounts of time with the }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 custodial parent}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and the }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 non-custodial parent}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  during non-working, non-sleeping, non-school time . . . .}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Although the statutes are silent as to joint custody arrangements, this court has previously found that a review of Title 19 of the GCA, entitled }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Parental Relations,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 reveals a legislative policy favoring the preservation of the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 sanctity of family life}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  by }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 the inclusion of both parents in the lives of their children.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  11; }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  12.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In light of this legislative policy, we have held that joint custody arrangements are preferred under Guam law.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  12; }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  12.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 We herein clarify that under Guam law there is a preference for both joint legal and joint physical custody arrangements.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The preference for either type of joint custody, however, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
is always secondary to the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  12.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [15]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The dispute in the present case involves the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s award of physical, as distinguished from legal, custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Here, the trial court awarded joint physical custody to the parties.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s Excerpts of Record, Tab A, p. 5 (Interlocutory Decree of Dissolution, Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law, Feb. 27, 2003) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The [p]arties shall have joint legal and physical custody of their minor child.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s Excerpts of Record, Tab B, p. 1 (Final Decree of Dissolution of Marriage, Feb. 27, 2003) (incorporating the Interlocutory Decree into Final Decree by reference).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Howerton argues that in light of this, the court erred in not giving the parties equal custodial time over the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [16]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 While the Guam statute which governs custody upon dissolution of marriage does not address joint custody arrangements (either physical or legal), }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 8404, it does address custodial arrangements where joint custody has not been awarded.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
In that context, the statute nonetheless favors equality of time between the custodial and the non-custodial parent.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Title 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h) specifically provides that, subject to various exceptions:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 It is legislative policy that children spend as much time with each of their parents as possible, when the }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 parents are not living together.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Therefore, in }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 determining visitation of minor children}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 . . . the court shall, to the greatest degree possible, order visitation for minor children (pendente lite and permanently) with non-custodial parents }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
such that the children spend more or less equal amounts of time with the custodial parent and the non-custodial parent during non-working, non-sleeping, non-school time}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  . . . .
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h) (emphasis added).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 However, in }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser
}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , this court recently found that even if joint custody is ordered, a joint custody plan does not }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 require}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  an equal division of time between the 
parents.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  13 (stating that joint custody }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
does not require that each parent have equal time with the children}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{
\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \s16\qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3548557  This holding in }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Lanser v. Lanser}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 2003 Guam 14,}{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557  }{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 is not inconsistent with the law in other jurisdictions.  Other courts have similarly found that joint physical custody does not require an equal division of time between the parents.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 See}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557  }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Taylor v. Taylor}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 508 A.2d 964, 967 (Md. App. 1986) (describing joint physical custody as }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 shared}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  or }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 divided}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  custody}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  and recognizing that }{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 [s]hared physical custody may, but need not, be on a 50/50 b
asis, and in fact most commonly will involve custody by one parent during the school year and by the other during summer vacation months, or division between weekdays and weekends, or between days and nights}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ).  Courts have so held even in light of statutes which favor equal division custody arrangements.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 See}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  }{
\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Stephenson v. Stephenson}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 847 So. 2d 175, 179 (La. Ct. App. 2003) (}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
[Louisiana law] provides that to the extent feasible and in the best interests of the child, physical custody of the children }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 should be}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 shared equally.  Yet, when the trial court finds that a decree of joint custody is in the best interests of the child, the statute does not }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 necessarily require}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  an e
qual sharing of physical custody. . . .  Substantial time rather than strict equality of time is mandated by the legislative scheme providing for joint custody of children.}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (citations omitted) (emphasis added); }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 In re Marriage of Smyka}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 739 P.2d 489, 490 (Mont. 1989) (interpreting an amended statute which provides that the }{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 allotment of time between parties shall be as equal as possible}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  to mean that equal time is now subordinate to the best interests of the child, and that }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 depending upon the circumstances of the case, equal physical custody will not be awarded if such is not in the best interests of the children}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (citation omitted); }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 In re Marriage of Blonigen}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
, 621 N.W.2d 276, 281 (Minn. Ct. App. 2001) (finding that by statutory definition, joint physical custody is an arrangement whereby }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 the routine daily care and control and the residence of the child is structured between the parties}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 and further finding that }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
joint physical custody does not require an absolute equal division of time; rather it is only necessary that physical custody be the shared responsibility of the parents}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (citations omitted);}{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557  Tilley v. Tilley}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 968 S.W.2d 208, 213 (Mo. Ct. App. 1998) (}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 By statutory definition, joint physical custody means }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 an order awarding each of the parents significant periods of time during which a child resides with or is under the care and supervision of each of the parties.}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557   Yet, joint physical custody does not require a trial court to allocate each parent an equal amount of time with the child.}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (citations omitted);}{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557  In re Marriage of Condon}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
, 73 Cal. Rptr. 2d 33, 46 n.13 (Ct. App. 1998) (finding that by statute, a parent with joint physical custody shall have }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
significant periods of physical custody . . . assur[ing] a child of frequent and continuing contact with both parents,}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 but that }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 a joint physical custody order does not require a child to spend an equal amount of time with each parent}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ).}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Accordingly, we reject Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s argument that the trial court was required to grant equal time under a joint custody plan as it is inconsistent with this court}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s prior determination that an equal division of time is not required under a joint
 physical custody plan where joint physical custody has been ordered.
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [17]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton argues on appeal that the custody schedule ordered by the trial court }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 only gives him what amounts to fairly limited visitation.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s Brief, p. 7 (July 23, 2003).}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton contends that the time allotment ordered in this case is inconsistent with the policy under local law favoring joint custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Howerton further argues that the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s decision to depart from an equal time arrangement was contrary to the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 He contends that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [i]n the absence of any factor showing the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests require otherwise, equal time should be ordered by the [c]ourt.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Appellant}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s Brief, p. 7 (June 23, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [18]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 First, we reject Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s argument that the custody arrangement ordered in this case did not approximate a joint physical custody plan.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
As stated earlier, joint physical custody does not require equality of time.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Rather, joint physical custody requires that each parent get continuous physical custody for significant periods of time.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Brown}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 621 N.W.2d at 77 (defining a j
oint physical custody order as an arrangement whereby there is an }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
exertion of continuous physical custody by both parents over a child for significant periods of time}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
) (citations and internal brackets omitted); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Stephenson v. Stephenson}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 847 So. 2d 175, 179 (La. Ct. App. 2003) (stating that the statutory scheme allowing for joint custody }
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 does not necessarily require an equal sharing of physical custody}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  but rather, mandates }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [s]ubstantial time }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 rather than strict equality of time}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (citations omitted and emphasis added).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
In the present case, the custody order allows Howerton several overnight visits a month, almost all day during most weekends, and several afternoon visits per week.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
This custody arrangement allows each parent substantial time with the child and continuous physical custody for significant periods of time.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See }{\cs18\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Tracy v. Tracy}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 961 S.W.2d 855, 858-59 (Mo. Ct. App. 1998) (rejecting the mother}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s argument that the trial court erred in 
granting primary physical custody to the father, and finding that the plan, which allowed the mother alternating weekend visitation, an extended period of custody during the first half of the summer, and alternating holidays and birthdays, was a joint phy
sical custody plan, and not a primary physical custody plan with visitation); }{\cs18\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In re Marriage of Blonigen}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 621 N.W.2d 276, 281 (Minn. Ct. App. 2001) (stating that }{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [j]oint physical custody does not require an absolute equal division of time,}{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and finding that a custody order which gave the mother }{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 physical custody of the children 
from Sunday evening through Friday evening during the school year and during the months of June and July,}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and gave the father }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
physical custody of the children every weekend from Friday evening through Sunday evening and during the month of August}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  was a joint physical custody arrangement); }{\cs18\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Nichols v. Ralston}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 929 S.W.2d 302, 304-05 (Mo. Ct. App. 1996) (characterizing a custod
y arrangement where the father had custody 20% of the time, and the mother had custody 80% of the time, as a }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 joint physical custody}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 arrangement in light of the statutory definition of joint physical custody as }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
an order awarding each of the parents significant periods of time during which a child resides with or is under the care and supervision of each of the parents}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [19]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Further, while substantial time, and not equal time, is all that is }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 required}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 under a joint physical custody plan, we agree with Howerton that under Guam law, equal time is }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 preferred}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and should be granted to the greatest extent possible.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h).}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The holding of }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lanser }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 that equal time is not }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 required}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 under a joint custody plan does not affect the clear legislative policy that equal time is preferred.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Thus, because equal time is preferred under Guam law, we must decide under what circumstances the lower court may deviate from an equal time arrangement upon awarding joint physical custody to both parents.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [20]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 We hold that a trial court may deviate from an equal time arrangement if it is within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Title 19 GCA }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 8404(a) provides that the award of custody in a non-joint custody circumstance should be made in accordance with the best interests of the child, and section 8404(h) provides that a trial court should to the greatest extent possible award equal time so l
ong as the arrangement }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
is not found by the court, on the evidence presented, to be injurious to the welfare of the child.}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\cs18\insrsid12146352  }{
\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 19 GCA 8404(h)(1).}{\cs18\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 This court has explicitly held that the preference for joint custody }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 is always secondary to the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\cs18\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Flores}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 1998 Guam 30 at }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  12}{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\cs18\insrsid12146352  }{\cs18\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
We similarly find that, when joint physical custody is awarded, the preference for equal time is also secondary to the best interests of the child.}{\cs18\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [21]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Other courts have likewise found that a deviation from the preference for equal time is permitted if it is within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In re Marriage of Smyka}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 739 P.2d 489 (Mont. 1987), the parents of a minor child divorced and the trial court found it to be in the best interests of the child that the parents have joint custody with the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s primary residence with the mother subject to visitation by the father.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In re Marriage of Smyka}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 739 P.2d 489, 490 (Mont. 1987).}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
That schedule was further amended upon motion of the mother, where the trial court again found that joint custody was proper but the father}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s visitation was reduced by eight days per year.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Under the final visitation schedule, the father was given 140 days with the child, and the mother was given 225 days.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Specifically, the father was awarded physical custody from }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Wednesday through Sunday twice a month, all of February and July, half of October, and alternate holidays.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 . at 941.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The father appealed, contending that the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 trial court erred by granting him custody of less than a full half of the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s time while finding that joint custody was appropriate.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 . at 490.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The father argued that by statute, the policy in Montana was to award }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 an equal allotment of custodial time,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and that the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision to grant him less than full time was a misapplication of the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 best interest of the child standard}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  set forth under statute.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The appellate court rejected the father}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s challenge.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 First, the court cited the statutory language, which provided that
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1620\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li1620\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1620\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin1620\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
physical custody and residency of the child shall be allotted between each parent in such a way as to assure the child frequent and continuing contact with both parents.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 T
he allotment of time between parties shall be as equal as possible; however, each case shall be determined according to the best interests of the child as the primary consideration}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1620\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 . (quoting MCA }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  40-4-224(2)).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Citing prior cases, the court found that the statutory preference of equal time was subordinate to the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 . at 490-91 (}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [D]epending upon the circumstances of the case, equal phys
ical custody during the school year will not be awarded if such is not in the best interests of the child. . . . [T]he statute requires that the equal time recommendation be balanced}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
by the practicalities of providing for the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ) (citations omitted).}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Ultimately, after reviewing the record, the }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Smyka }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 court affirmed the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s specific custody and visitation award.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
. at 491;}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  see also Stephenson}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 847 So.2d 175, 178, 181 (finding that the visitation scheme, allowing the father visitation }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 every other weekend and each Wednesday afternoon . . . during the school year and alternate weekly summer visitation,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  achieved the paramount goal of preserving the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interest under the unique circumstances of the case).}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [22]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 We agree that a best interest analysis should be a factor in structuring custodial time arrangements when joint physical custody is ordered.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Where equality of time is not required, but preferred, under a joint physical custody plan, the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision to depart from an equal time arrangement should be made in accordance with the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [23]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 This court has not previously discussed the various factors a lower court is to consider in determining allotment of custody as the decision relates to the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests; thus, it is helpful to look to local statutes relating to custody as well as cases fr
om other jurisdictions.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 a) Factors for Determining Custody. 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [24]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Though governing the situation where a trial court awards physical custody to one parent, and not joint custody, the factors in 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h) do provide some guidance on the matter.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Section 8404(h) states that a trial court should to the greatest extent possible give equal time subject to the following considerations:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (1) The proposed visitation is not found by the court, on evidence 
presented, to be injurious to the welfare of the child; 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (2) The non-custodial parent is willing to accept such visitation; 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (3) The non-custodial parent is not found by the Court to be an unfit }{
\insrsid12146352 person to have such visitation;}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard\plain \s19\qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
(4) The visitation is not found by the Court to interfere with the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s schooling; }{
\insrsid3548557 
\par }\pard \s19\qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
(5) Unless the Court finds that it i}{\insrsid12146352 s not in the best interests of }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 the child, non-custodial parents or the children's grandparents shall be given consideration in }{\insrsid12146352 
providing child-care for their }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 minor children or grandchildren, when visitation orders are prepared;}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
(6) In determining visitation rights under this subsection (h), the court shall take into account the employment of each parent and the time the child spends in school or in extracurricular activities;}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (7) Based on proof presented, the court may take into account 
other factors respecting visitation which would affect the welfare of the minor child or children;}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi-675\li2115\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2115\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 . . . 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Title 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h).
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [25]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
As referenced above, under section 8404(h), in considering a deviation from an equal time division when sole physical custody is ordered, the lower court is to consider the following factors, which are part and parcel of a finding regarding the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests: the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s welfare, the parents}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  willingness to accept visitation, the parents}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  fitness, the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s schooling, the parents}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  jobs and the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s extra-curricular activities.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Courts in other jurisdictions have found similar factors to be relevant in determining the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests in determining custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 For instance, in }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Bah v. Bah}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 668 S.W.2d 663, 666 (Tenn. Ct. App. 1984), the court found that in determining where the best interests of a child}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
lies when awarding custody, the lower court should consider many factors including, but not limited to:
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (1)}{\insrsid12146352 \tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
the age, habits, mental and emotional make-up of the child and those parties competing for custody;}{\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (2)\tab the education and experience of those }{\insrsid12146352 
seeking to raise the child;
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 (3)\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
their character and propensities as evidenced by their past conduct;}{\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (4)}{\insrsid12146352 \tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
the financial and physical circumstances available in the home of each party seeking custody and the}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 special requirements of the child;}{\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (5)\tab the availability and}{\insrsid12146352 
 extent of third-party support;
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (6)}{\insrsid12146352 \tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
the associations and influences to which the child is most likely to be exposed in the alternatives afforded, both positive and negative;}{\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li2160\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin2160\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (7)}{\insrsid12146352 \tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
and where is the greater likelihood of an environment for the child of love, warmth, stability, support, consistency, care and concern, and physical and spiritual nurture.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  (internal numbering added); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 see also Taylor}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 508 A.2d at 971-75 (discussing factors to consider in awarding custody);}{\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar
\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3548557  In }{
\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Taylor}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 508 A.2d 964, the court found the following non-exclusive factors to be relevant in determining whether to grant joint physical custody: (1) 
capacity of the parents to communicate and to reach shared decisions affecting the child}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
s welfare; (2) willingness of parents to share custody; (3) the relationship established between the child and each parent; (4) the preference of the child; (5) the potential disruption of the child}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 s social and school life; (6) the geographic proximity of the parent
al homes; (7) the demands of parental employment; (8) the age and number of children; (9) the sincerity of the parents}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 request; (10) the financial status of the parents; (11) the impact on state and federal assistance; and (12) the benefit to the parents.}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557   }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Id}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 . at 971-74 (internal numbering added). }}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Woodall v. Woodall}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 471 S.E.2d 154, 157 (S.C. 1996) (discussing factors}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 to consider in awarding custody).}{\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid3548557 
\chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3548557  In }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Woodall v. Woodall}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 471 S.E.2d 154 (S.C. 1996), the court indicated that in determining custody, the }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 family court must consider the character, fitness, attitude, and inclin
ations on the part of each parent as they impact the child. . . . [as well as the] psychological, physical, environmental, spiritual, educational, medical, family, emotional, and recreational aspects of the child}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 s life . . . .}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557   }{
\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Id}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 . at 157 (citation omitted).}{\insrsid3548557  }}}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [26]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In the case at bar, during the January 31, 2003 custody hearing, the lower court stated that in determining custody it looks at the following factors:
\par }\pard\plain \s19\qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \s19\qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [F]it
ness; mental health; the ability of the Parties to provide love and affection and emotional ties; the ability of Parties to provide some sense of permanence; the capability to financially provide a roof over the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s head, clothing, food; the ability of Parties to work with each other and to facilitate a continued and close working relationship between the two Parties for the interests of the child.
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 102 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 These factors are consistent with the factors listed in 19 GCA }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  8404(h) as well as those relied upon by courts in other jurisdictions.}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }{\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 b) The Trial Court}{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s Consideration of the Factors.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [27]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Upon review of the record, it is also apparent that the court took the relevant factors into consideration when determining custody.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Specifically, after enumerating the relevant factors, the court pronounced: }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 I find it equal on both sides.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 102 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The court then stated that it did }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 find more favorable to Ms. Howerton . . . a more stable environment.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 102 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Notably, the court recognized that because Howerton 
moved to Japan due to his job, he was at a disadvantage.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The court thereafter decided that the parties would have joint legal and physical custody, with the custody arrangement in place prior to trial to remain the same.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 
102-03 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The court specifically found that the arrangement proposed by Howerton, with one week on and one week off, to be inappropriate for a young child.}{\insrsid12146352 
 }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 103 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 I do not agree that a week on, week off for a child of tender years is in the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [28]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 There is evidence in the record which supports the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
For instance, Carter testified that Howerton (who is in the military) moved to Japan for his job when the child was around eight moths old, in January of 2000, and moved back in April of 2002.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  Transcripts, vol. III of III, pp. 17, 28, 66 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
During his time away, Howerton had little physical or telephonic interaction with the child, as he would come to Guam every month or two for generally two or three days.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Thus, it is apparent that the child spent the bulk of her young life solely in the care of Carter in Carter}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s home.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The testimony also revealed that Howerton had work duty a
t least one weekend per month, had a rigorous physical training program and often left the home at 4:00 a.m. to exercise, and returned from work after 8:00 p.m. in the evenings.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Howerton testified that should he be required to work early in the morning or on the weekends, he planned to bring the child to the Harvest Baptist Church daycare center.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 74 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton testified that on the days he had drill or other non-regular work duty, the child would be in the care of }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 strangers,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  basically, non-relatives.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 80-81 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 By contrast, Carter testified that when in her custody, the child was either cared for by herself, or, if she had to work, by Carter}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s eldest daughter, who, according to the transcripts, has experience with childcare and has a close relationship with the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton also testified that being in the military, if he was reassigned, he would have no choice but to move away from Guam.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 84 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [29]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The evidence identified above supports the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s determination that the child would find a more stable, and familiar, environment with Carter, and that the stability of the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s environment was in the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Stephenson}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 847 So. 2d at 181 (finding that the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 best interest [wa]s served by the stability he receive[d] in [the mother}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s] . . . home during the school week.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{
\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3548557  There was testimony which could arguably support a finding that Howerton should be granted more time.  For instance, after the }{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 Nine-Eleven Incident,}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  Carter was requi
red to take overnight flights.  During ten nights out of the month she would leave the child overnight with a caretaker, Mrs. Reyes.  Transcripts, vol. III of III, pp. 9-10 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).  Carter also testified that the child did not appear
 
to be uncomfortable after visitation with Howerton.  Transcripts, vol. III of III, pp. 53-54 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).  The court also specifically asked whether Carter was willing to develop a good relationship with Howerton in the future, to which C
a
rter replies yes.  Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 56 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).  Howerton also testified that he lives in a home in Dededo in a secure complex, where the child has her own room (full of toys, etc.).  Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 7
1
-72 (Bench Trial, Jan 31, 2003).  He testified that the child has friends in the neighborhood.  Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 71-72 (Bench Trial, Jan 31, 2003).  Howerton also testified that he has changed his lifestyle and no longer jogged as often an
d did not jog at 4:00 a.m. and was at home a lot more than before.  Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 74 (Bench Trial, Jan 31, 2003).  Notwithstanding this testimony favoring an equal time arrangement, this court must affirm the trial court}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 s award so long as there is competent evidence in the record to support the court}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 s award.  }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 See Lanser}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 2003 Guam 14 at }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  15, 18.}{\i\insrsid3548557  }{\insrsid3548557   }}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Furthermore, it has been recognized that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 extended visitation at infrequent intervals may not be }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 reasonable}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  with regard to infants or toddlers: }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
from a developmental perspective, very young children should not be separated from their primary caretakers for long blocks of time.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Condon}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 73 Cal. Rptr. 2d at 46 n.13 (citation omitted).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [30]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Accordingly, we find that the trial court did not err in deciding that Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s proposed week on, week off plan was not within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Overall, because there is some competent evidence in the record supporting the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s decision, it cannot be concluded that the trial court abused its discretion in deviating from an equal time arrangement and in deciding to structure the joint custody plan such that the child would spend most nights with Carter with a few afternoon and 
overnight stays with Howerton.
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [31]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Finally, the fact that Howerton was found to be equally as fit as Carter }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 did not relieve the trial judge of the burden of determining which parent could best meet the present needs of the child[].}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Anderson v. Anderson}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 590 P.2d 944, 946 (Ariz. Ct. App. 1979) (rejecting the contention that the trial court erred in placing physical custody with the appellee where the court also found the appellant to be }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 fit}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Thus, although both parents were found to be fit, the trial court was still required to determine what type of joint custody arrangement was within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s best interests, and was permitted to deviate from the preference for equal time if such an arrangement was found to be within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Here, the evidence supports the court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision on the custody arrangement.}{\insrsid3548557 
\par }{\insrsid12146352\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 2.}{\b\insrsid12146352  }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Tender Years Doctrine.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tqr\tx5760\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [32]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Howerton also argues that the lower court erroneously applied the tender years doctrine, which, according to Howerton, is inapplicable under Guam law.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [33]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 tender years doctrine}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  holds that young children, generally those under the age of seven years, should be in their mother}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s care.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Cynthia C. Siebel, }{
\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Defining Fatherhood: Emerging Case Law Reflection of Changing Societal Realities}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , W}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 HITTIER}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  J. }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 OF}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  C}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 HILD}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 &}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  F}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
AM.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  A}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 DVOC.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 125, 126 n.5 (2003); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Lee v. Lee}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 798 So. 2d 1284, 1289 (Miss. 2001)}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [T]he tender years doctrine . . . essentially states that if the mother of a child of tender years (i.e., early in development) is fit, then she should have custody.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 )}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 At common law, there was no presumption in favor of the mother.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Rather, }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
the father, as a matter of right, was entitled to the custody of his children.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Bazemore v. Davis}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 394 A.2d 1377, 1380 (App. D.C. 1978); }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Ex Parte Devine}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 398 So. 2d 686, 688 (Ala. 1981) (}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 At common law, it was the father rather than the mother who held a virtual absolute right to the custody of their minor children.}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 ).}{\i\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Towards the end of the nineteenth century, however, the traditional rule that the father was always entitled to custody began to give way to a standard under which the best interest of the child controlled.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Bazemore}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , 394 A.2d at 1380.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 This standard favoring the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 evolved into a preference for the mother.}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Specifically, courts began to link the child}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s welfare with custody remaining with the mother, and a presumption arose that giving custody to the mo
ther was in the best interests of the child.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Id}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 .}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
The doctrine, which was once a conclusive rule, eventually formed into a presumption favoring the mother.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 See Devine}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
, 398 So. 2d at 691 (stating that the tender years presumption provides that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
[a]ll things being equal, the mother is presumed to be best fitted to guide and care for children of tender years}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 )}{\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar
\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 Whether the doctrine is useful for application in modern times is a separate issue.  In fact, the legal trend has been to abandon the tender years doctrine.  The doctrine }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 has been abolished, or is disregarded, by most jurisdictions currently . . . .}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\fs20\insrsid3548557   Cynthia C. Siebel, }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 Defining Fatherhood: Emerging Case Law Reflection of Changing Societal Realities}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , WHITTIER J. OF CHILD & FAM. ADVOC., 125, 126 n.5 (2003); }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 
In re Marriage of Fynaardt}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 , 545 N.W.2d 890, 893 (Iowa Ct. App. 1996) (}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
[W]e no longer infer the best interests of children of tender years are better served by awarding custody to their mother.}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
) (citation omitted).}{\insrsid3548557   }}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [34]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In contending that the lower court relied on the tender years doctrine, Howerton cites the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s pronouncement during the hearing wherein it stated:
\par }\pard\plain \s19\qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid12146352 
\par }\pard \s19\qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tqr\tx7920\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 I am going 
to award joint legal and physical custody to both sides.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 But I am keeping visitation as is.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 As is.}{\insrsid12146352  }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 By ordering this, the Court recognizes that as the child matures, that }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 66 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  and is older }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 66 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 the child is of tender years right now and I do not agree that a week on, week off for a child of tender years is in the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interest.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 But I do agree that as the child matures, that the non . . . }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 66 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  the one who has less time }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 66 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  which would be Colonel Howerton }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 66 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 that that less time should increase to more time.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tqr\tx7200\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 89 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard\plain \s20\qj \li1440\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx9360\faauto\rin1440\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 But I do believe that it is in the best interest of this child, because both parents have expressed that Guam will be their residence, that I grant joint legal and joint physical custody with visitation as is.
\par }\pard \s20\qj \li0\ri1440\nowidctlpar\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx9360\faauto\rin1440\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }\pard\plain \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 103 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [35]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 After reviewing the record, we disagree with Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s contention that the lower court relied on the tender years doctrine.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Under the }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 tender years doctrine,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  all things being equal, a court is required to place a young child in the custody of the mother.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
In this case, the trial court stated that it did not feel that the custody plan proposed by Howerton, which consisted of a one-week on, one-week off schedule, was in the best interests of the child considering the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s age.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 While the lower court indicated that the child is }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 of tender years,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  this reference to the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s young age was made to emphasize that a ping-pong arrangement was inappropriate in this case.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 This is further evident in the trial court}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s question to Howerton during the hearing, which the court characterized as an }{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 important question,}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 to wit}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 :}{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 How do you feel that it}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s in the best interest of a child of tender years to go back and forth seven days on and seven days off?}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
How is it in the best interest of a three-year-old child to have that?}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Transcripts, vol. III of III, p. 93 (Bench Trial, Jan. 31, 2003).}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}
{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s focus on the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s young age was related to its determination that the child would find a more stable environment under the custody plan as ordered, as opposed to the week-on, week-off plan proposed by Howerton.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 

\par }{\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [36]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Thus, because the court did not use the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s age for the purpose of holding that the child should be in the mother}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s care }{\i\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 because of the age}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 , but rather, considered the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s age to determine whether Howerton}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s proposed arrangement was within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
s best interests, the trial court did not apply the tender years doctrine as Howerton asserts.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Consequently, because the lower court did not apply the tender years doctrine, we reject Howerton}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s argument that the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision should be reversed on that ground.}{\cs15\super\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \qj \fi720\li360\ri360\sa240\nowidctlpar
\tx360\tx1080\tx1800\tx2520\tx3240\tx3960\tx4680\tx5400\tx6120\tx6840\tx7560\tx8280\tqr\tx9000\faauto\rin360\lin360\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\fs20\super\insrsid3548557 \chftn }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 
  We do note that Title }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 19 GCA }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557  9108}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 
 appears to be a codification of the tender years doctrine in this jurisdiction.  }{\cs18\i\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 See }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 Title 19 GCA }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557  9108 (1994) (}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 
In awarding the custody of a minor, or in appointing a general guardian, the court or officer is to be guided by the following considerations . . . (b) As between parents adversely claiming the custody or guardianship, neither parent is entitled to it as 
of right; }{\i\fs20\insrsid3548557 but other things being equal, if the child is of tender years, it should be given to the mother}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ; if it is of an age to require education and preparation for labor and business, then to the father.}
{\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (emphasis added).}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 
  Howerton identifies several statutes which arguably indicate that legislative policy disfavors the doctrine.  }{\cs18\i\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 See }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 Title 19 GCA }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557  4106 (1994) (}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 
The father
 and mother of a legitimate unmarried minor child are equally entitled to its custody, services and earnings. If either the father or mother be dead or unable or refuse to take the custody or has abandoned his or her family, the other is entitled to its c
ustody, services and earnings.}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 ); Title 19 GCA }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557  4107 (1994) (}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 
The husband and father, as such, has no rights superior to those of the wife and mother, in regard to the care, custody, education, and control of the children of the marriage, while such husband and wife live separate and apart from each other.}{
\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 ); Title 19 GCA }{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557  8404(a) (1994) (}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 Custody should be awarded }{
\cs18\i\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 to either parent}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557  according to the best interest of the child.}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{
\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 ) (emphasis added).  Further, during oral arguments, Howerton alluded to a contention that the doctrine may be constitutionally infirm in its bias favoring women.  However, }{\fs20\insrsid3548557 because }{
\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 we find that the lower court did not apply the doctrine, we find it unnecessary at this time to determine the validity of the doctrine in this jurisdiction.  We further find it unnecessary to address Howerton}{
\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f36\fs20}}}{\cs18\f41\fs20\insrsid3548557 s argument that even assuming the doctrine applies in this jurisdiction, it sh
ould not be applied where the mother and father are both employed full time outside the home.  }}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 IV.
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx0\tx720\tx1440\tx2160\tx2880\tx3600\tx4320\tx5040\tx5760\tx6480\tx7200\tx7920\tqr\tx8640\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12146352 {\b\insrsid12146352 
\par }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 [37]\tab }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Overall, we find that equal time is preferred but not required under a joint physical custody arrangement.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
Furthermore, while equal time is preferred under Guam law, the lower court may deviate from an equal time arrangement if doing so is within the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 The evidence in the record supports the trial court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s determination that equal time was not in the child}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s best interests, and that the child should primarily reside with Carter.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Thus, because the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision was supported by substantial evidence, we find that the lower court did not abuse its discretion in its custody decision.}{
\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Further, we find that the lower court did not apply the tender years doctrine in this case.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 Accordingly, we reject Howerton}{
\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s contention that the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision should be reversed on the ground that the court erroneously relied on the doctrine.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 In light
 of the foregoing, we }{\b\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 AFFIRM}{\b\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 the lower court}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 s decision regarding the custody of the parties}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f36\fs24}}}{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
 minor child.}{\insrsid12146352  
\par 
\par }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 *Original opinion issued on May 11, 2004 listed citation number as 2003 Guam 8, correction made on May 20, 2004, citation number is 2004 Guam 8.
\par 
\par In paragraph 11, third sentence, Flores v. Flores was changed to Flores v. Cruz.}{\insrsid12146352  }{\insrsid3548557\charrsid12146352 
\par }}