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2 things to talk about when creating a child custody order

On Behalf of | Apr 3, 2023 | Child Custody

If you’re going through a divorce and have kids, then you’re going to need to talk about a child custody order with your soon-to-be ex-spouse. 

Child custody orders are often complex, but you may be able to understand a little about how they work by reading the following:

Will there be sole or joint custody?

There is legal and physical custody in a custody order. Legal custody gives parents the right to decide how a child is raised. This could include where they go to school, if they have a religious upbringing or who oversees their health. While physical custody determines who the child lives with.

One parent may be given sole custody, which could mean that they have legal and physical custody. Or, parents may work together in a joint custody agreement where all decisions are made together and physical custody is shared.

Sole or joint custody greatly depends on the dynamic of a family. In some cases, parents have been known to agree to sole and joint custody, for example, where one parent has sole physical custody and both parents have joint legal custody. 

Will there be co-parenting or parallel parenting?

It’s often believed that a joint custody order is what’s best for a child’s well-being. However, just because parents have joint custody, doesn’t mean that they have to agree to everything. If parents want to work together then they’re likely going to have a co-parenting plan. This type of plan often has constant communication.

However, if parents are prone to arguing, then they could create a parallel parenting plan. This plan helps limit contact and communication, which may be for the benefit of the child. Parents may communicate through text or email. 

Understanding how to make a child custody order can often leave people confused and left with questions. If this is happening to you, then you may need to reach out for legal help

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