Child Custody Issues

Child custody issues arise when parents separate or divorce and need to determine how to share responsibility and care for their children. Custody can be classified as legal (decision-making authority) and physical (where the child lives). Courts consider the child’s best interests, including their emotional, physical, and educational needs. Factors like parental fitness, the child’s relationship with each parent, and stability are important. Custody arrangements can be joint (shared) or sole (one parent has primary responsibility). Mediation is often encouraged to reach amicable solutions, preventing lengthy court battles and promoting cooperative parenting.