Child custody can be given exclusively to one spouse, or you can share joint custody. In most cases, one parent has sole custody and the children live with that parent. The other parent usually has visitation rights taking the children on weekends, holidays, or vacations. In certain circumstances, the parties may agree or the court may order joint physical custody where the children spend time living with both parents on a regular basis. Frequently, spouses share responsibility for important decisions affecting their children, such as choosing schools and medical treatment.
If you are unable to agree on custody, the court will award it based on considerations such as parental fitness, the preferences of the children, and their age and sex. A party who later wants a change in custody must show that conditions have changed and that a new arrangement is in the best interest of the children.
