Child custody is one of the most important topics you and your ex will have to agree on when you divorce. Any loving parent wants what’s best for their child. Regularity and routine can make kids feel comfortable, which is why determining a set custody arrangement—and having it confirmed by the courts so that it’s legally binding—is so important.

Legal vs. Physical

When discussing arrangements concerning the care of your child, you must address both physical and legal child custody. Physical custody refers to actual in-person contact with the child. This term encompasses who the little one will live with and what visitation rights, if any, the other parent will have.

Legal custody, on the other hand, refers to who can make major decisions about raising the child. This includes what type of education the little one receives, what religion they are raised in, and what sorts of medical treatments—such as vaccines—they receive.

Sole vs. Joint

When it comes to the physical and legal aspects, it's possible to have joint custody, which the parents share, or sole custody, which is held by just one parent. Physical and legal custody don't have to be aligned. For example, the mom and dad could share legal custody evenly, but the child could reside 80% of the time with one parent and 20% of the time with the other.

In most cases, legal custody is joint. The right to make decisions about a child's welfare is only taken from the parent if they are unfit, for instance due to substance abuse. Physical custody can be arranged in many different ways, from an even “joint” split to one parent having sole custody—or even partial arrangements like the aforementioned 80/20. 

If you are dealing with child custody issues, look to Lonneman & Associates, PLLC, for experienced guidance you can trust. Located in Elizabethtown, KY, this law firm serves the counties of Hardin, Larue, Nelson, Hart, and Grayson. They have been operating since 1981 and focus on family law issues. Whether you have questions about adoption or are filing for divorce, they can help. Visit their website for a full list of their practice areas. For a free consultation, give them a call at (270) 765-2190.