Child Custody

Often times, child custody proves to be the most contentious of the marital issues.  The most difficult decision to make is which parent will be the primary legal custodian.  This is the parent that has the decision-making authority with respect to the children.  Physical custody refers to the parent with whom the child lives.  The most common type of arrangement is sole custody.  The child typically resides with the sole custodian and visits with the other parent.  In a shared custody arrangement (sometimes referred to loosely as "joint custody"), the child shares time with both parents.  This arrangement allows for a great deal of creativity in the child's living situation.  Split custody refers to an arrangement whereby parents equally split custody of the child.  Normally, this results in the child living with each parent for two weeks of each month.  Custody not only effects the child's living arrangements, but the amount of child support paid or received by each parent. 

The bottom line consideration in all custody matters is what arrangement is in the "best interest of the child."