When two people decide to break up, one of the most challenging things they have to deal with is what will happen to their children. It is especially true if they can’t come to an agreement on their own about custody. This article will talk about what child custody is, and the factors used to determine who gets custody of the children. We will also provide some tips for parents going through a custody battle.
What Is Child Custody?
Child custody is the legal term for a child’s parental rights and responsibilities. When two people decide to break up, they need to figure out who will have custody of the children. In some cases, the parents can agree on their own about who will have custody. But in other cases, they may need to go to court to have a judge decide.
There are two types of custody. These are legal custody and physical custody. Now, let’s talk about the first type of custody. Legal custody refers to the parent’s right to decide about the child’s education, health care, and other essential matters. Next up, physical custody refers to the option of the child living with that parent most of the time. Sometimes, parents will have joint legal and physical custody, which means that they both have a say in the child’s upbringing, and the child spends time with both parents.
How Can I Determine the Child Custody?
In the legal process of divorce, the court will decide who gets custody of the children. It’s as the judge will consider many factors in making this decision. Some of these factors include the wishes of the child’s parents, the child’s preference if they are old enough to choose, and the child’s relationship with each parent. The judge also considers which parent has been the child’s primary caregiver, the child’s adjustment to their home, school, and community, and each parent’s mental and physical health.
Most of the time, they also take into account any history of domestic violence by either parent and whether either parent has a criminal record. After considering all these factors, the judge will decide what is in the child’s best interests and make a custody order.
How Much Should I Pay for the Child Support?
After getting divorced, the non-custodial parent is usually required to pay child support. This money helps cover the costs of raising the child, such as food, clothing, housing, and medical care. The amount of child support that a parent has to pay is usually based on their income and the number of children. You can use a child support calculator to estimate how much you might have to pay. If you are a custodial parent and need help getting child support from the other parent, you can contact your state’s child support enforcement agency. They can help you set up an account and start collecting the payments.
If you are a parent going through a divorce, it is essential to understand the court’s factors when deciding custody. It is also important to remember that the judge’s decision will be based on what they believe is in the child’s best interests.