How does Child Custody work? St. Louis recognizes two forms of child custody commonly referred to as physical custody and legal custody. Both have similarities and differences that can affect the parents involved in their child’s life. Both can be awarded to one or both parents depending on the situation. To know more about how child custody works, visit www.stlouisdivorcelawyers.net/child-custody/.
Physical custody is when the court grants sole physical custody to one parent. Legal custody is defined as the authority, right, and responsibility to make health, educational, and welfare choices for the child. In a St. Louis Divorce Mediation, the parents will meet with the judge and the court to discuss custody. The parents will work out an agreement to share legal responsibilities for the children. This agreement is in writing and is presented by both parties for approval by the judge.
Once the parents agree on custody and physical custody, they will need to decide on visitation issues. During the divorce mediation, the parents will meet with the judge to discuss the proposed agreement. There are a few things to consider when dividing up the time with the children. Both physical custody and legal custody can be divided equally or one party may have more time than the other. During the divorce mediation, each parent will explain why they believe they have custody or visitation rights and the judge will listen to both sides.
If one parent seeks physical custody of the child, it means that they have full legal control over the child’s time and residence. This means that they can make decisions about the child’s schooling, where they will live, what religion they attend, medical treatment, religious activities, religion in the workplace, etc. If a parent has sole physical custody of the child, they will also have joint financial and custodial responsibility. This means that the parent who has the most control over the child has more financial and custodial responsibility. If the child lives with both parents, the parents will work out a schedule for visitation.
Parents can also work out an agreement for joint legal custody or they can seek full custody. In joint custody, both parents have equal rights and responsibilities. Joint custody does not mean the child will live with only one parent. The child can live with either parent and the court will determine which parent the child will live with. If one parent seeks sole custody, they have to convince the courts that they have the best interests of the child in mind. The courts will consider visitation schedules, the child’s living environment, health and education, and any extracurricular activities the child is involved in.
Child custody and visitation can be an expensive experience if you are going through a divorce. Attorneys help many clients get the best results in their cases and can help you navigate the often complex and unfamiliar terrain of divorce. If you are in the middle of a divorce, contact an attorney in St. Louis today. Child support attorneys help clients avoid court appearances and can help you fill out necessary paperwork so you can receive child support payments.