subject: Child Custody [print this page] Divorce means legal end to a marriage, which adversely affects the whole family the couple as well as the children. One of the common disputes between prents seeking divorce is regarding child custody or guardianship.
In majority of the jurisdictions, this issue is dissolved by the court while keeping in mind the best interest of the children. In most of the family law proceedings, the issue of contact and residence of the children often lead to bitter arguments between the couple. It may sometimes get even worse, wherein one parent accuses the other for a number of reasons, including abuse and manipulation. Divorce, along with the custody proceedings, adversely affects children, which may even leave a bad impression on their psyche.
The rights and responsibility of the parent may vary depending on the type of child custody, whether it is a sole custody or joint custody. In case of sole custody, the child lives with one of the parents and that parent is referred to as the custodial parent. In contrast, the other parent is referred to as the non custodial parent, who may have visitation rights to visit the child. The number as well as time of visitations is generally laid down by the court.
On the other hand, in a joint custody the child lives with both the parents who share the cost of lodging and caring of the child. Here, both the parents are referred to as custodial parents and manage their responsibility as per the parenting plan or schedule ordered by the court.
For the well being of the child, it is generally advised that the parents reach upon an agreement regarding child custdy that is in the best interest of the child.
