Child custody may be one of the most significant, and understandable, concerns for divorcing parents. When a couple is considering a divorce, at the top of their list are likely considerations about where their children will reside, who will make important decisions for them, how they will co-parent and how the divorce may impact their children. It can be helpful for parents to know that the family law system provides resources to help them with each of these concerns.
In general, child custody determinations are based on what is in the best interests of the child. It is important to always maintain that as a focus of all child custody considerations during and following the divorce. Developing a child custody plan that is in the best interests of the child can be achieved through mediation or other resources available to divorcing parents through the family law system.
When approaching the issue of co-parenting, child custody plans that provide for each parent to play a role in the child’s life whenever possible are viewed in a positive light. It is important for parents to remain focused on what is in the best interests of the child throughout the process. There are a variety of factors that are taken into consideration when determining what is in the best interests of the child and when determining child custody. There are generally two types of custody, legal custody and physical custody, that must be resolved.
A child custody agreement will help parents determine who has legal custody and physical custody of the child and if it is shared. Child custody is a paramount concern in any divorce when children are involved, which is why the family law process provides ample resources to help parents negotiate the process and ensure it is as positive for their children as possible.
