What Are the Different Types of Child Custody? 

Child custody can be classified as one of several categories. Some forms are sole legal custody, joint custody, physical custody, and sole physical custody. In most cases, the sole legal custody will be awarded to the custodial parent. In other cases, the non-custodial parent will receive parenting time. Regardless of custody type, courts place the best interest of the child first. 

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Joint custody 

Joint child custody is one option that parents can opt for if they cannot agree on joint visitation or shared custody. Joint physical custody means that both parents will share the responsibility of raising the child. They will be allowed to spend as much time with their children as possible, even if they don’t live in the same location. However, if one parent feels that the other parent will cause danger to the child, a judge may award sole physical custody. If that is the case, the other parent will receive regular visitation. 

Joint legal custody means that both parents will share the decision-making authority over the child. Both parents will need to communicate to stay informed about the child’s well-being and make decisions together. The main difference between physical custody and joint legal custody is that joint physical custody involves the child moving between both parents’ residences. 

Physical custody 

When determining custody of a child, courts generally consider several factors. These include the current arrangement of the family, the wishes of the child, the parent’s involvement with the child, and any history of abuse or neglect. They may also appoint an attorney for the child, who interviews the child and argues for the child’s best interests. 

Depending on the type of custody arrangement, the child may live with one or both parents at different times. This arrangement is usually based on a court-ordered schedule. The objective is to provide a stable environment for the child. 

Sole legal custody 

Sole custody refers to an arrangement in which one parent has sole legal and physical custody of the children. This is very common in divorce cases and is a great way to protect children. However, sole custody does have its limitations, so it is important to understand your legal options before filing for a divorce. 

One parent will have sole legal custody if the other parent does not have the right to make major decisions on behalf of the child. However, the noncustodial parent will still have access to basic day-to-day decisions. In addition, sole physical custody can mean that one parent has the right to move the child across the country without consulting the other parent. 

Full custody 

If you and your ex-spouse are going to divorce, it is important to know the terms of child custody. Legal custody is the right to make important decisions for your child’s upbringing. It differs from physical custody, which entails joint decision-making. In some states, both parents share the right to make major decisions for their children, known as joint custody. 

There are also several types of child custody. Sole custody, for example, is where the noncustodial parent has no rights of visitation or custody. But, if the other parent is deemed unfit to raise the child, they will likely be given sole physical custody. This type of custody is also similar to joint legal custody.