Divorces are especially hard when minor children are involved. Many states compel parents to mediate custody issues because judges do not want to make the decision. The parents should come up with a plan together. However, the court will make the decision based on the best interests of the children. The “best interests” is a broad term, but the law narrows it down. The decision is often based on the child’s age and sex. In addition, the parents’ health is considered. Of course, the judge must witness a bond between parent and child.
Visit their website and meet Thomas Conrad and Conrad. This law firm handles child custody law in Allentown, PA and they can explain the various options for custody. Most parents have joint legal custody unless one is unfit. Joint legal custody does not refer to where a child lives; rather, this custody allows both parents to make decisions about health, education, and religious issues. Theoretically, parents with joint legal custody make major decisions together. However, one parent may be named the ultimate decision maker.
On the other hand, some parents try to exclude the former spouse. If this occurs, the former spouse can take measures to be included in the decision-making process. The parent that is not cooperating could face a stiff contempt fine. Rarely do parents have sole custody of their children. Nonetheless, it happens in cases where a parent is unfit or they do not want the responsibility. The parent with sole custody makes all the decisions. In addition, the other parent may not be able to access information about the children.
Many children are happy when the parents have joint physical custody. Lawyers who practice child custody law in Allentown, PA understand this arrangement. The children spend an equal amount of time with each parent. Experts believe this arrangement works better when the parents live near each other, which allows the children to attend the same school all the time, and have the same routine and friends. Hopefully, parents are able to work together for the benefit of their children so they can become happy adults with both a mother and father along the way.
