When parents in Massachusetts go through a divorce, one of the most important issues they face is deciding on child custody. The goal is always to create a plan that is in the best interests of the child. Understanding the different custody options can help parents make informed decisions.
Physical custody
Physical custody refers to where the child will live. Parents can have joint physical custody, where the child spends time living with each parent, or one parent may have sole physical custody. In joint physical custody, the child often moves between both homes according to a set schedule. In sole physical custody, the child primarily lives with one parent, while the other parent may have visitation rights.
Legal custody
Legal custody involves making important decisions about the child’s life, like education, healthcare, and religion. In Massachusetts, parents often share joint legal custody, meaning they work together to make these decisions. However, one parent may have sole legal custody if it’s determined that joint decision-making is not in the child’s best interests.
Joint custody
Joint custody can refer to either joint physical or joint legal custody. When parents share both types, they work together in raising their child and making decisions about their upbringing. Joint custody requires good communication between parents and a commitment to putting the child’s needs first. This arrangement works best when both parents are willing to cooperate.
Sole custody
Sole custody means that one parent has full responsibility for the child. This can be sole physical custody, sole legal custody, or both. Sole custody is usually granted when one parent is not able or fit to care for the child or when parents cannot work together in making decisions for their child.
Child custody arrangements aim to provide stability and a nurturing environment for children during and after a divorce. Understanding the differences between the types of custody helps parents navigate these challenging decisions. Keeping the best interests of the child at the forefront is the key to making custody work well for everyone involved.