Navigating Child Custody Arrangements a Guide for Parents

Understanding Types of Custody

Legal Custody: Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about your child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious practices. Courts often prefer joint legal custody, allowing both parents to participate in these crucial decisions.

Physical Custody: Physical custody determines where the child primarily resides. It can be:

• Sole custody: The child lives primarily with one parent

• Joint custody: The child splits time between both parents' homes

• Bird's nest custody: Children remain in the family home while parents rotate in and out

  
  

Factors Courts Consider in Custody Decisions

• Each parent's ability to provide for the child's needs

• The child's relationship with each parent

• Parents' work schedules and availability

• The child's ties to school, community, and extended family

• Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

• The child's preferences (if they're old enough to express them)