WHAT IS LEGAL CUSTODY?

A Guide for Custody Decisions During Divorce

Custody Determinations During Divorce

When a couple with children separates,

a decision must be made on child

custody

There are two different types of

custody:

o Physical custody

o Legal custody

Legal Custody

Legal custody refers to the right to

make legal decisions for the child

Physical custody refers to where the

child will live

It is common for the parent who has

physical custody to also have legal

custody

Examples of Legal Custody

A parent with legal custody has the

authority to make decisions related to:

o Where the child will attend school

o What religion the child will practice

o What doctor the child will see

o What medicines the child will take

Legal Custody Arrangements

Legal custody can be shared among

both parents

One parent can be granted sole legal

custody of the child

The decision on who has legal custody

is made based on the best interests of

the child

Disagreements on Decisions

When parents with shared legal

custody disagree on decisions, they

may take the case to court and have

a judge help them to resolve their

disputes

If only one parent has legal custody,

his or her decisions are final

regardless of the opinion of the other

parent

An Attorney Can Help

We invite you to contact us at (925) 314-2320 to

schedule a consultation

Click to visit: www.FamilyLawGroup.com

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