What is the Most Common Child Custody Arrangement?

If you are in the process of a divorce and have children involved, you need to know your rights concerning your children.

There are various types of child custody arrangements. You have likely heard of them but may not totally understand the difference between legal custody, physical custody, sole custody, or joint custody. The parents or the courts determine the different types of custody arrangements, but both handle them differently. Whether a couple agrees on custody issues or is in court to battle them, it’s important to understand the different types.

If you are in the process of a divorce and have children involved, you need to know your rights concerning your children. At The Betz Law Firm, our goal is to assist families as they navigate their way through divorce and child custody issues.

Types of Child Custody Arrangements

• Legal custody – This arrangement gives a parent the right to make long-term decisions about how the child is raised. This includes the child’s medical care, education, and religious instruction. In most child custody cases, legal custody is awarded to both parents.
• Joint legal custody – This is when a divorced couple shares legal custody. This means that the mother and father equally share in making important decisions concerning their child’s upbringing and welfare.
• Sole legal custody – In this arrangement, only one parent has the legal authority to decide key issues related to the child’s upbringing. The other parent has no legal right to participate in the decision-making process.
• Physical custody – In this arrangement, the child lives with the parent that is granted physical custody. That parent provides continual care for the child. The courts grant visitation rights of the noncustodial parent.
• Sole custody – In this situation, only one parent has physical and legal custody. These custody arrangements are typically due to child abuse or drug addiction cases.

The most common type of custody arrangement is joint legal custody. However, remember that every divorce involving custody has its unique circumstances and challenges. Custody is based on your individual situation, not based on what commonly occurs.

St. Louis Custody Lawyers

Our legal team recognizes the delicate nature of child custody proceedings. We make it a priority to ensure that the interests of you and your child are considered first and foremost. The idea of losing precious time with a child can be overwhelming for a parent whose primary goal is to protect their well-being. We have the experience you need to help your family through these difficult times and ensure that you are satisfied with the result.