As you begin to navigate all of these ‘firsts’ that come with a divorce that includes children, it is important to understand your options when it comes to custody. The ways in which to go about it are vast, and your options are pretty limitless. From physical custody, to sole custody, and joint custody. It is important to understand the lingo and the implications of each type of child custody.
Child Custody: Different Types and Their Implications
Sole Custody:
Sole custody refers to one parent having complete custody of the child. While this is not ideal, and judges are often hesitant to remove all power from one parent, this type is typical for situations in which one parent is unfit. Take drugs addicts, abusers, or those unable to financially accommodate the child. Having sole custody means that the child is in the care of one parent only, and they are the decision maker.
Joint Custody:
Joint custody is a common type of custody when both parents are fit to care for the child. This type of custody implies that the child is in equal care when it comes to all aspects. From decision making, to who houses the child— these decisions must be mutual in the case of joint custody. Joint custody gives each parent the opportunity to equally share responsibility, and allows the child equal access. Although, the flip side of this is that shuffling back and forth is pretty tricky. It usually leaves one parent driving further, the child without complete stability, and can cause problems in trying to adhere to a schedule. Especially as activities and wants of the child change over time.
Legal Custody:
Legal custody means that one parent has the legal authority to make all decisions about the child’s life. From health, education, morals, and so on— the parent with legal custody is the one who will be in complete charge of the child’s upbringing. This type of custody is not too common in the case that both parents are fit to take care of the child. But, it is an option.
Physical Custody:
Physical custody is one of the most common types of custody. This implies that one parent has been granted the right for the child to live with them in their home. This provides one parent with the majority of the rights, and allows the other parent visitation and limited custody rights. But, this keeps the child in one home and with one parent primarily. This is common because it leaves the child without having to shuffle back and forth regularly. This is one of the main issues when it comes to joint custody.
You have to remember that there are a multitude of options depending on the best interest of the child. From shared responsibilities, to sole responsibilities— the main thing to remember is deciding what is best for the child is what is important. You should not use custody proceedings as a means of exacting revenge or anger on your ex. You child needs stability at this time. However you decide to go about child custody proceedings— whether in court or making the agreements yourself, this is the most important thing to remember.