There are several family matters that are discussed during a divorce. Couples will often talk about asset division and alimony. However, divorcing parents usually have a major pressing matter that is more important to discuss: child custody. Whether both parents will keep custody of their children after their divorce is often a topic of conflict.
Parents can prepare themselves for custody discussions and court hearings by understanding some legal terminology. Two terms that can help parents understand their custody options are “joint custody arrangements” and “sole custody arrangements.” Here is what you should know:
Child custody for both parents
Joint custody means that both parents share certain custody rights, whether that is legal custody, physical custody or both.
Co-parents who have a joint legal custody arrangement can work together to decide what is best for their child’s upbringing, including where they go to school, who they see for medical care and whether they attend religious events.
A joint physical custody arrangement means that parents rotate the days when their child lives with them.
Co-parents with joint custody usually draft a custody schedule that helps manage when each parent is responsible for their child’s daily needs, such as eating meals, attending school and going to bed and how legal custody issues (such as schooling and medical care) will be handled.
Child custody for a single parent
Parents may also seek sole custody rights. A parent with sole legal custody can make decisions for their children without the other parent’s input. A parent with sole physical custody will have the child live with them all the time. The other parent may get scheduled visitation time to see their child.
Parents can seek professional legal guidance to learn more about their rights and custody options.