14 Sep The Differences in Legal and Physical Child Custody

In a divorce with children, it is vitally important for parents to establish custody. There are two types of custody: legal and physical.

It’s important to understand what each type of custody entails, since not all parents have both physical and legal custody of their children. Each type can be set up differently, depending on the location of a parent and how well they interact with their child. Read on to learn about the differences between these types of custody.

Legal Child Custody

Legal child custody refers to the overall responsibility of being a parent, such as taking your child to the doctor and enrolling him or her in school. You and your spouse most likely made these decisions together while you were married, so it’s probably best to keep this same arrangement even after a divorce.

However, if one parent doesn’t spend much time with the child, lives far away, neglects the child or basically has no interest in the child, then it might be wise for the primary caregiver to request sole custody.

Physical Child Custody

Physical child custody refers to where the child lives. In many cases, both parents share physical custody of the child. They may have a schedule where the child spends one week with the mother, then alternates with the father, or something similar. This only works if the parents live near each other and the custody wouldn’t affect school or activities. The time split may not be 50/50, but it’s usually fairly close.

If one parent has moved away or is out of town often for business, then the primary caregiver may request sole custody with visitation rights. The other parent would not have custody, but could still visit the child. Sole custody is a consideration in cases of abuse or neglect.

Resolve Child Custody Issues With New Jersey Attorney Jeffrey M. Bloom

Divorces can be quite contentious, especially when children are involved. It’s important to understand the types of child custody so you can make the right decisions for your child. West New York divorce attorney Jeffrey M. Bloom can help you fight for your child custody rights. Call The Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Bloom for a consultation at (855) 208-3650.