custody disputes

Custody disputes occur when parents who have separated or divorced cannot agree on who should have legal and physical custody of their children. Legal custody refers to the rights to make important decisions about a child's upbringing, while physical custody pertains to where the child lives. These disputes can lead to court interventions, where judges consider the best interests of the child, including factors like stability, parenting abilities, and the child's relationship with each parent. Resolution can involve joint custody arrangements or one parent being granted sole custody, aiming to support the child's emotional and developmental needs.