Child custody arrangements are complicated. If you’re seeking custody of your children after a divorce, you probably have a number of questions. At Jones, Childers, Donaldson & Webb, PLLC, we’d be happy to clarify the process and answer any questions you have. Here are a few of the most common questions that our child custody lawyers get asked and their answers.
- Are legal and physical custody the same thing? The short answer is no. Legal custody refers to the ability to make decisions regarding a child’s life, such as where the child goes for doctor visits. Most of the time, both parents share legal custody. Physical custody refers to the child’s living situation. Physical custody arrangements range from an equal time split between the parents, one parent having sole physical custody, and different combinations in between.
- How do courts decide on custody rights? Determining which parent has physical custody involves many different factors. Parental health, the child’s relationships with each parent, the needs of the child, and other background information all play a role in determining custody arrangements. Child custody lawyers gather as much information as possible when communicating with the court about proposed arrangements.
- Can custody arrangements be changed? You have the chance to renegotiate custody arrangements every few years. This process is smoother if both parents agree to the changes, but if one parent disagrees, the other will need to file a petition. If you find yourself in this position, a child custody lawyer will be able to help you out.
Our child custody lawyers are experienced and well-equipped to help you with your family law legal needs, so call today if you’re struggling to work through a child custody situation.