are several different types of custody arrangements that can be established when parents separate or divorce. These arrangements determine how legal and physical custody of the child or children will be shared between the parents. The specific type of custody arrangement may vary depending on the laws of the jurisdiction and the unique circumstances of the family. Here are some common types of custody arrangements
Table of Contents
Sole Custody
In this arrangement, one parent is granted both legal and physical custody of the child. The custodial parent has the right to make all major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religion. The non-custodial parent may be granted visitation rights or parenting time.
Joint Custody
Joint custody involves both parents sharing legal and physical custody of the child. Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child’s welfare, while physical custody determines where the child resides. Joint custody can be joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both. It requires effective communication and cooperation between the parents.
Split Custody
Split custody is a less common arrangement where each parent is granted custody of one or more children. For example, if a family has two children, one parent may have custody of one child, while the other parent has custody of the other child. Split custody is typically only considered if it is in the best interests of the children involved.
Bird’s Nest Custody
In this arrangement, the child remains in the family home, and the parents take turns living there. The parents rotate in and out of the family home according to a predetermined schedule. This arrangement aims to provide stability for the child by minimizing disruptions to their living environment.
Third-Party Custody
In certain cases, a third party, such as a grandparent or another relative, may be granted custody of the child if both parents are deemed unfit or unable to care for the child. This type of custody arrangement is typically considered when it is determined to be in the best interests of the child.
Unsupervised and Supervised Visitation
In cases where one parent has primary custody, the other parent may be granted unsupervised visitation rights. This allows the non-custodial parent to spend time with the child without supervision. However, in situations where there are concerns about the child’s safety or well-being, supervised visitation may be ordered. This means that visits with the non-custodial parent must be supervised by a third party, such as a social worker or another responsible adult.