Child Custody
When it comes to Anderson child custody, there are three main options: sole, joint, and divided custody. Among these options, sole custody is the most common option that judges go with. If both parties can agree to joint custody on their own— the judge will typically fall into line with this selection. But, when given the choice, the court typically avoids this route because it tends to separate siblings from one another.
Anderson Child Custody: Understanding Your Options
Sole Custody:
Sole custody awards one parent custody of all children— making them the custodial parent while the other parent is awarded visitation. Visitation typically means that that non-custodial parent will receive some weekends, holidays, and a few weeks in the summer. However, when it comes to visitation, you have the liberty to draft the agreement to fit the needs of the children.
Joint Custody:
Joint custody results, quite obviously, in shared custody of the child or children. This means that both parents will receive nearly equal custody of the children and responsibility. A court is hesitant to award this type of custody. Therefore, it’s something both parties might agree to during mediation rather than taking it to court.
Divided Custody:
Divided custody is only an option when you have multiple children. In the event of divided custody, your children will be divided between one parent or the other. For instance, Mom gets the daughter and Dad gets the son. The court is, quite obviously, not quick to decide on this route versus one of the other two. However, if the facts are just right when considering best interest, this is a possibility.
Alternative Child Custody Options:
There are instances where a third party, or grandparents, will receive custody if the court considers it to be in best interest. This is not an easy decision for the court, as they try to avoid separating children and their parents. To receive a custody award, the third party or other family member must prove that they have been the primary care giver and financial support for the child/children. Furthermore, the child must have been living with them for six months to a year depending on their age.
