The Different Types of Child Custody Arrangements

When children are involved in a divorce it is important to understand what type of child custody you will be obtaining. In general terms, legal custody means that you have the obligation and right to make decisions regarding your child's upbringing. This includes decisions about schooling, medical care and religion.

If a court awards joint legal custody then both parents have the rights to make these decisions. In fact, if you attempt to make a decision against the wishes of your ex, he or she can go back to court and bring it before a judge. While you won't necessarily get fined or go to jail, the entire process could be potentially embarrassing and time-consuming. It could even involve an attorney which means the added financial expense as well.

In some cases one partner believes that joint custody would be impossible. He or she would then need to argue the case before a judge to ask for sole legal custody, such as when the partner is completely uncommunicative or abuse. However the law of many states makes it preferable and easier to ask for joint custody.

Have questions about custody?  Now is the time to enlist the services of a family lawyer.