Types of Child Custody
You've probably heard the various types of custody tossed around. But do you really know the difference between legal custody and physical custody? How about the legal definition of joint custody? Whether a couple agrees on custody issues or is battling it out in court, it's helpful to have information to deal with the child-focused parts of your divorce. Divorcing parents' rights with respect to their children will vary depending on the type of custody that is agreed upon or ordered by the court. Below you will find tips on the key differences among legal custody, physical custody, sole custody, joint custody, and more.
- The Various Types of Child Custody
Overview of the various types of child custody and the pros and cons of each, including physical custody; legal custody; sole custody; joint custody; and information about joint custody agreements.
- Legal Custody
Full definition and explanation of legal custody, which is different than physical custody in that it allows a parent to make long-term decisions about the child’s upbringing and well-being.
- Physical Custody
Definition and explanation of physical custody, which differs from legal custody in that it involves the determination of where a child lives on a day-to-day basis.
- Sole Custody
Definition and explanation of sole custody, an arrangement whereby only one parent has full custody of their child, often awarded in cases where the other parent is abusive or absent.
- Joint Custody
Overview of joint custody, a relatively common arrangement for divorced or unmarried parents in which the child splits his or her time between the two parents’ living quarters.
- Grandparent Visitation and Custody
Basics of what a court considers when grandparents seek visitation or custody of a child, a determination that is primarily based on the child’s needs and best interests.