A magnetic head structure for use in perpendicular magnetic recording. The magnetic head includes a magnetic write head having a return pole with a magnetic shunt structure extending from the back end opposite the ABS. The magnetic shunt structure prevents magnetic field from the write coil from reaching and affecting the read head. More specifically the shunt structure prevents magnetic field from the portion of the write coil beyond the back gap (as measured from the ABS) from magnetizing a magnetic shield of the read head. The shunt structure is also configured so as to avoid stray field writing. The size and shape of the shunt structure is therefore, limited to avoid attracting stray fields that might cause such stray field writing.