Child custody disputes are never simple, especially with so much at stake. Because these cases might impact your future relationships with your children, many parents find themselves understandably overwhelmed, especially if they don’t know what to expect. Here’s what you need to consider during child custody negotiations.

What Types of Custodies Are There?

There are two types of custody awarded by family courts—legal and physical. Physical custody determines where a child will live and how much time they’ll spend with each parent; legal custody is the right to make health care, educational, and other important decisions on the child’s behalf. While the court might give primary custody to one parent if they decide the other is unfit, judges usually prefer to establish joint arrangements, allowing children to develop meaningful relationships with both guardians.

Who Will Decide Custody?

Family courts will generally defer to agreements arranged by the parents, although they will review the plan to ensure everyone’s rights are respected. A negotiated custody agreement is usually the best approach, reducing the time and emotional friction of protracted litigation. However, if you and the other parent cannot find common ground, the court will make a decision for you.

What Is the Court’s Criteria for Deciding Custody?

The court is required to make its custody decision based on the child’s best interests, which might be influenced by a variety of factors. In addition to the quality of existing relationships, the judge will consider each parent’s criminal record and the living conditions they can provide, and they might even take the child’s own wishes into account.

For nearly 30 years, The Law Offices of Charley Johnson has provided detailed guidance to Leon County, TX, parents in a variety of legal situations. Their team understands how important the outcome of custody disputes can be and are committed to giving every client the compassionate, effective counsel they deserve. Visit their website or call (903) 536-2185 today to schedule a consultation, and follow their Facebook page for more tips and advice.