Highlighted Insights
Types of Custody:
Actual Custody: The day-to-day care and control of a child, typically by the parent with whom the child lives.
Legal Custody: Rights and responsibilities conferred by court order, usually beginning as joint custody.
Custody Orders:
Courts can grant custody to a parent, guardian, relative with prior care, or any suitable applicant, provided it serves the best interests of the child.
Principles in Custody Decisions:
The court weighs factors such as the child’s best interests, parents’ conduct, child’s wishes, religion, customs, and sibling welfare.
Custody Arrangements:
Joint custody: shared decisions
Sole custody: full rights by one parent
Sole custody with access: visitation allowed
Custom arrangements: agreed through mediation
Modifications Over Time:
Custody arrangements are not permanent; they can be revised if circumstances change, always prioritizing the child’s welfare.