What Are the Different Types of Custody Arrangements?

Maryland law provides for a complex series of child custody arrangements. It’s in your best interests to consult a child custody lawyer to discuss your goals for child custody and the options that might be best suited for your particular situation. A child custody lawyer near Severn can also advise you as to the factors the judge will consider when awarding child custody.

Temporary Custody

Your child custody lawyer may recommend that you file a request for temporary custody at the same time as your divorce paperwork. If a judge awards you temporary custody based on the best interests of the child, it means that the child will reside with you while a long-term child custody arrangement is being determined. Being awarded temporary custody does not automatically mean that you will be awarded sole custody later on.

Sole Custody

When you meet with your attorney to discuss divorce and child custody, let him or her know if you plan to pursue sole custody. The court may award you sole physical custody of your child if you can prove that it’s in your child’s best interests because your soon-to-be ex-spouse may be an unfit parent. You could also be awarded sole legal custody, which means that you will be solely responsible for making important decisions for your child’s upbringing.

Joint Legal Custody

If you and your ex-spouse are awarded joint legal custody, it means that the two of you will share the responsibility of decision-making. This responsibility includes making plans regarding the child’s religious upbringing, education, medical care, and other important matters.

Shared Physical Custody

If the judge establishes a shared physical custody arrangement, it means that the child will spend at least 35 percent of his or her time with both parents. The child may primarily live with one parent; however, the other parent will have access to a balanced schedule of child visitation.

Split Custody

In some cases, a judge may grant split custody when there is more than one child involved in a custody arrangement. Depending on the children’s ages and their preferences, the judge may determine that it’s in the best interests of the children for one of them to live with one parent and the other with the other parent.