Types of Child Custody

Understanding the Differences in Custody in Riverside

When negotiating the terms of custody, it is critical that a parent understands the different types of custody that can be decided upon. There are four main types of custody that may be granted: physical custody, legal custody, sole custody and joint custody, all unique in their terms and responsibilities. If you are facing a child custody matter and would like to learn more about your options, get in touch with a Riverside child custody lawyer for legal assistance.

Especially in a circumstance where two estranged parents live within reasonable proximity to one another, a court may assign physical custody. In this type of child custody arrangement , it is a parent's right to have the child live have their primary residence with the parent assigned physical custody, and various options can be arranged with regard to joint custody or sole custody for one parent and visitation rights for the other.

Legal custody grants a parent the right to take part in decisions concerning the child's upbringing, such as schooling, medical care and religious matters. In many states, legal custody works hand in hand with joint custody, granting the right to both parents. However, if one of the parents decides to exclude the other from any decision-making processes, the other may ask a judge in a court of law to enforce the custody agreement.

In cases where a parent is unfit to take care of the child, for matters dealing with alcohol, drugs, child abuse and negligence or other issues for instance, sole custody will be awarded to the other parent. A court will award a parent with either sole legal custody or sole physical custody, depending on the circumstances. Sole physical custody details a joint custody situation where one parent is deemed the caretaker and the other has visitation rights, while both engage in the decision-making process.

There are many instances in which joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or a combination of the two can occur. These systems may involve alternating periods of months or years in which a child resides with one of the parents, or holidays and weekends at one parent's house. Unfortunately, joint custody arrangements may prove to be negative as a child may be put in between a parental dispute or as he or she is constantly moved around.

Child Custody Attorney in Riverside

Although no type of child custody is the perfect situation, it is important to cooperate with the other parent in the agreement that your child's wellbeing is the top priority. Here at Hanson, Gorian & Bradford, we are committed to striving for the best possible arrangement for you and your child while maintaining a healthy, stress-free environment. Our firm will deliver excellent service and compassion for your unique situation.

Contact a Riverside custody lawyer today for guidance on the types of custody.