Understanding The Child Custody Choices With Divorce

Blog

Child custody arrangements refer to the legal and physical custody of a child after a divorce or separation. There are several types of custody arrangements, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. 

Sole physical custody: This is when one parent has the primary responsibility for the child's physical care. 

Advantages:

• Provides stability and consistency for the child
• Can be easier to make decisions for the child's upbringing
• May be appropriate if one parent is unfit or unable to care for the child

Disadvantages:

• Can be difficult for the non-custodial parent to maintain a strong relationship with the child
• The child may feel like they are missing out on spending time with the other parent
• Can be emotionally challenging for both the child and the parents

Joint physical custody: This is when both parents share physical custody of the child, and the child spends roughly equal time with each parent.

Advantages:

• Allows the child to maintain a close relationship with both parents
• Both parents can participate equally in the child's upbringing
• Can be beneficial for the child's emotional well-being

Disadvantages:

• Can be logistically challenging, particularly if the parents live far apart
• Can be difficult for the child to adjust to spending time in two different homes
• Requires a high level of cooperation and communication between the parents

Sole legal custody: This is when one parent has the right to make all major decisions regarding the child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religion.

Advantages:

• Can be easier to make decisions for the child's upbringing
• May be appropriate if one parent is deemed unfit or unable to make responsible decisions for the child

Disadvantages:

• Can be challenging for the non-custodial parent to have a say in important decisions regarding the child
• Can be emotionally challenging for both the child and the parents

Joint legal custody: This is when both parents share the right to make major decisions regarding the child's upbringing, and both parents are expected to cooperate and communicate with each other.

Advantages:

• Allows both parents to participate equally in important decisions regarding the child's upbringing
• Can be beneficial for the child's emotional well-being

Disadvantages:

• Can be logistically challenging if the parents do not live near each other
• Requires a high level of cooperation and communication between the parents
• Can be difficult if the parents have significant disagreements regarding the child's upbringing

Speak to a family law attorney for more info. 

16 May 2023