Every state has slightly different definitions of the various kinds of child custody arrangements. The state of Alabama recognizes three main types of custody—legal, physical, and visitation—and there are a few subtypes that fall under these main categories. Below is a brief introduction to these terms, what they mean, and how they might impact you and your family.

3 Types of Child Custody in Alabama

1. Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the parent who is given the duty of making decisions on behalf of the minor child. This parent has the legal right to choose such things as what school the child attends, what doctor they visit, what religion they follow, and what community they live in. Legal custody can be sole legal custody, wherein just one parent has the right to make the child's decisions, or joint legal custody, where both parents share that right.

2. Physical Custody

Physical custody is awarded to the parent with whom the child will live the majority of the time. This parent has the primary responsibility for raising the child. Sole physical custody is a situation in which the minor child lives with just one parent, usually having visitation with the other parent. Joint physical custody occurs when both parents are required to divide their time evenly with the child, allowing the child to maintain a consistent relationship with both parents.

3. Visitation

Visitation is the type of child custody parents without physical custody are generally given. It is simply the right of the noncustodial parent to see the minor child. If the noncustodial parent is a potential danger to the child or the child's other parent, a family law judge may restrict visitation or require supervised visitation. The judge may also order no visitation at all.

Donna C. Crooks, Attorney at Law, is a custody and divorce attorney who has been serving the Enterprise and Dothan, AL, areas for more than 20 years. Call (334) 598-9534, visit her website, or connect with her on Facebook or Google+ to schedule a consultation. By understanding some basics of child custody, you can work to ensure your children receive the highest levels of care and protection.