Child Custody

There are a number of types of custody that may be granted to one or both parents after a divorce.

1. Sole Legal Custody – one parent is granted custody of the child in regard to legal issues. Gets to make the very important decisions in the child’s life.

2. Sole Physical Custody – one parent is granted to actually habituate and care for the child. The parent with physical custody is charged with making the day-to-day decisions for the child such as food, clothing, education, and social interactions. Reasonible visitation rights of the non-custodial parent may be permitted if it is in the best interest of the child..

3. Shared Legal Custody – both parents are mutually responsible for the major decisions regarding the child.

4. Shared Physical Custody – the child shall have separate periods of time with each of the parents. Shared custody will be carried out in a way that the child has frequent and continued contact with both parents.

Factors that may be considered before awarding custody

1. The preparation and planning of meals
2. Bathing, grooming, and dressing
3. Clothing care
4. Medical Care
5. Arranging Social Interactions
6. Arranging for alternative care
7. Putting the child to bed
8. Disciplinary abilities
9. Teaching of elementary skills
10. Religious and Social Education

Despite these ten criteria, the ultimate factor in determining custody is what is in the best interest of the child.