How is child custody broken down?

How is child custody broken down?

Child custody arrangements are broken down into two categories: physical custody and legal custody. Physical custody decides who the custodial parent will be after the divorce. This means that the child will reside with this parent. With this in place, it grants that parent as the primary caretaker since they will be spending more time with the child as compared to the other parent. Legal custody decides on who is involved in the major decisions in the child’s life. When a parent is granted legal custody of the child, they will be able to make major decisions for the child. This can include decisions regarding the child’s education, medical treatment, religion and more.

Parents may be granted a combination of both depending on the situation. In other cases, parents may be granted just physical or legal custody. If you are granted physical custody, it does not automatically mean you are granted legal custody of the child. Parents who do not win physical custody of their child should still fight for legal custody so that they can be involved in their child’s life.

How are joint custody and sole custody different?

For child custody arrangements, each case differs on how the custody is split. Cases can be split by joint custody or even sole custody depending on the situation. For all cases, the best interests of the child should be the first thing in mind. Judges will decide for the child’s health and safety. Otherwise, parents should do the same.

Sole custody arrangement can be rare. These cases can become a reality if one of the parents is deemed to be unfit. Joint custody arrangements allow for both parents to be a part of the child’s life. For these custody arrangements, parents need to work together to communicate properly. This requires the cooperation of both parties. Overall, these custody arrangements can help the child maintain a normal lifestyle after their parents have split. With both their parents in their lives on a regular basis, children may be able to adjust to the divorce quicker and easier.

The Pollack Law Firm, P.C. understands that divorce and family law matters can be very complicated and emotional. They require strong legal representation from a compassionate attorney. Robert Pollack is an experienced divorce and family law attorney in Long Island, New York. Contact The Pollack Law Firm, P.C., to set up a free initial consultation.

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