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If you are in the middle of a custody battle, you may think that it’s an all or nothing kind of deal. Many people mistakenly believe that when one parent is awarded custody of the children, then the other parent has no rights at all. In fact, this is not true. There are different types of custody that award both parents certain rights.
Sole custody
Sometimes, it is an all or nothing deal. There are certain cases where the court awards one parent sole custody of the children. This is usually because the other parent has been proven to be unfit or incapable of properly caring for the children.
50/50 custody
This is the most common type of child custody. This is usually joint legal and physical custody of the children. It doesn’t mean, however, that the children equally split their time between both parents. Basically, 50/50 custody means that both parents have rights when it comes to the children.
Legal custody
This is an important type of custody that often gets overlooked. Legal custody gives you help make critical decisions for your child. This includes making decisions about where your child will go to school, live, and other types of decisions relating to his future. Legal custody also generally awards generous visitation as well.
There are other types of custody in the courts, but these three are the most common. Know the types of custody available before you head to the courts and you’ll be much better off when it comes to getting custody of your children.
Most importantly, remember that both parents, and the children, have rights. This isn’t all about you. If you are seeking sole custody simply for revenge against your ex, then rethink your decision. This is about the health and well-being of your children. Custody battles are not the time or the place to try to sort out your personal difference with your ex-spouse.
