Types of Child Custody – What You Should Know
In order to properly understand child custody you need to know what types exist. Contrary to the beliefs of different people, we are not at all in front of one topic that ends with full custody given to a parent. In fact, four different child custody cases have to be discussed. A court will decide upon which one is best in the event of a divorce or problems between parents. We should talk about legal custody, sole custody, physical custody and joint custody.
Legal custody definitely is important. A parent with legal custody can make every decision that is connected with the needs of the child. Religion, health and education are included but not the only important facts. Joint legal custody tries to be awarded by most courts. It is always preferred as parents get to hold personal legal custody rights. It is highly important at all times to see that both of the parents are preoccupied with the life of their child.
A court can even give physical custody. Basically this means that children are to live with one parent while visitation rights are given to the other one. When a child gets to spend equal time with both parents we might be faced with joint physical custody. In this case both parents will get the exact equal amounts of time to spend with the child.
Sole custody is 1 child custody type that is really drastic. This is where just one parent gets the right to everything. Legal and physical custody is included. Although sole custody can be given, this does not necessarily mean that a Family court will try to eliminate some parents from children’s lives. The only circumstance when this will happen is when we have enough proof that a parent will not be able to raise the child properly. Sole legal custody is really rare.
Joint custody is the final type of custody. This is the most common one and children will benefit the most from this if it can work properly. Every person that has to deal with cases of child custody has to hire a lawyer to represent his case. We have to recommend that you are really attentive as the decisions that you are to take will also impact the child’s life.