Question 1

What factors do courts consider for custody?

Accepted Answer

Courts prioritize the child's best interests, considering: stability, primary caregiver role, each parent's parenting ability, child's wishes (older children), distance, and any history of abuse.

Question 2

What's the difference between legal and physical custody?

Accepted Answer

Legal custody = right to make major decisions (school, medical). Physical custody = where the child lives. Parents can have joint legal custody with unequal physical custody.

Question 3

Can we agree on our own custody arrangement?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Parenting plans agreed by both parents are usually approved by the court if they serve the child's best interests.

Question 4

What if one parent has been the primary caregiver?

Accepted Answer

Courts typically favor continuity and stability. A parent who's been the primary caregiver often gets primary or majority custody, but 50/50 is increasingly common.

Question 5

How often can a non-custodial parent see the child?

Accepted Answer

Standard visitation is every other weekend + one weeknight dinner. Longer overnights may be negotiated, especially for older children.

Custody Evaluator

Custody Arrangement Evaluator

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