When a couple goes through a divorce, they are faced with many legal matters. One of those involves making decisions that will impact the future of their children. When couples end their relationship, they must make arrangements regarding their children’s custody. While some families are able to come to civil agreements, others are not. In this case, a parent may wish to consult with an attorney regarding guidance for your case. It is important to know the different types of custody arrangements for parents to consider.
Physical Custody
Physical custody is assigned to the parent that the child will spend the majority of their time with. This parent handles the residency and day to day life of the child. Known as the “custodial” parent, he or she is able to designate the parenting times of the other party involved.
Joint Custody
In a best-case situation, some parents are able to make an agreement regarding custody. Parents are able to work together to reach a decision that most benefits the child. Joint physical custody allows both parents to equally divide their time with the child.
Legal
While the residency of a child is an important factor in custody, there is still a matter of the other parent’s influence in their child’s life. This is one of the most important parts of a custody case because it can change the course of a child’s entire life. Legal custody handles a parent’s right to be involved in the important decisions of their child’s life. This may include determining health, academics, religious practices, and the child’s general welfare. Even if a parent does not have physical custody of their child, they can still fight for joint legal custody to be involved in their life. Sole custody is rare, but sometimes possible if parents cannot come to an agreement on the child’s best interest. Though in this case, the other parent is still allowed visitation.
Factors Considered
When child custody comes into question, the judge always acts in the best interest of the child. There are several factors to be considered before coming to a final conclusion. This may include:
- The stability that each parent can provide the child
- If the parent will act in the child’s best interest
- The relationship between the child and each parent
- History of domestic abuse
- The safety of the child
- The needs of the child
- The child’s preference if they are of sufficient age
Contact
If you or a family member is going through a divorce and seeking legal representation for child custody, call Paris P. Eliades Law Firm LLC. today.
Paris P. Eliades Law Firm, LLC is honored to serve the people of New Jersey, including Sparta, Sussex County, Morris County, Passaic County, and Bergen County with the quality legal services they deserve. Contact our firm for a consultation today.
