Navigating the legal system can be intimidating, especially when it comes to matters of child custody. It is hard to know where to begin when dealing with such an emotional issue.
If you have a child custody case on your hands, here are some key things you need to know.
Types of custody
When you have legal custody of your children, you get to make decisions about important elements such as your children’s schooling and religious upbringing. Physical custody, on the other hand, refers to your right to have your children live with you. New York courts often reward physical and legal custody together, but they are sometimes separate.
Factors the court will consider
When making child custody decisions, the court will consider what is in your children’s best interest. If your children are old enough and mature enough to make their own wishes known, the court will hear out their opinions. The court will also assess the ability of you and your ex to provide a safe and healthy environment for the children.
Parenting plan
When settling a child custody case, you and your ex will have to come up with a parenting plan. You can fill out a form that covers who gets to be with the kids at certain times of the year, including holidays and vacations. Think carefully when scheduling this, as it is not always easy to change the plan.
Child custody can become a complicated and troubling issue, but there are ways you can make things smoother. With the right knowledge, you can feel more confident going into your court hearing.
