Q: In a 50/50 custody situation, do judges take into consideration jobs of a parent where work travel is unpredictable?

A: Although family law courtrooms are very crowded, especially this time of year, Judges for the most part do strive to create workable schedules for working people with minor children. You're right that you need to keep working and supporting your children and you should not miss out because of your owning up to your responsibilities. I have seen them very cleverly craft child support orders for noncustodial parents who earn overtime so that the custodial parent receives a large amount of child support every month after the overtime is worked. In the same fashion, a schedule could be created to reflect the changes based on your changing travel schedule. It would be easier in mediation but parents don't always agree. If it is made clear enough to the judge and a solution is presented, then the Court will likely adopt such a solution. The key to going to court in any case is being prepared. Go in with a plan. Make it easy for the Court to adopt the plan as the most fair and easy solution even over the other parent's objections. To do that you will most likely need an attorney's representation. I say that not because I'm a lawyer wanting client, but because not everyone can draft documents that point to such a solution to your problem and also represent themselves well in court and speak well and judges often do not take parties impropria person, representing themselves, seriously. They will take you serious if you have an attorney, at least if the attorney is well prepared and providing a workable solution