When a couple goes through a divorce, they must settle numerous legal matters. If they are parents, this involves making arrangements for the future of their children. This can include matters such as child custody and child support. Once these decisions are made, it establishes a child’s custodial and non-custodial parents. These roles in a child’s life both come with their own separate responsibilities.
Responsibilities of a Custodial Parent
During a custody case, parents can either obtain physical or legal custody of their child. When a parent obtains physical custody of their child, they are known as the custodial parent. This individual has a very important role in a child’s life. They are the individual with whom the child lives and spends the majority of their time. This parent is required to provide the child with basic stability. This includes a home, food, clothing, education, and much more. The custodial parent must put the best interests of their child before their own in order to ensure a happy and healthy upbringing.
Responsibilities of a Non-Custodial Parent
The parent who does not obtain physical custody of their child is known as the non-custodial parent. This role is also very important in a child’s life. During divorce cases, the court stresses the presence of both parents in the child’s life. It is because of this that, even though the non-custodial parent does not have their child full time, they can still spend time with them. This is allowed through visitation and parenting rights that are designated during the divorce proceedings.
If a parent does not obtain physical custody, it is crucial that they still fight for legal custody. Legal custody allows a parent the right to be involved in making important decisions throughout the upbringing of their child. This can be regarding issues such as healthcare, education, relocation, religion, general well-being, and more.
It is important to know that non-custodial parents have a requirement to financially assist their child. The cost of living for a child can become very expensive, especially for one parent to handle on their own. It is because of this that non-custodial parents must pay child support to the custodial parent. This ensures the child’s cost of living is balanced between both parents. The payments allow the child to maintain the same standard of living that they were used to before the divorce.
Can Custody Arrangements Change?
Family law decisions are made based upon what is best for the child at the time of the divorce. However, the life of a family changes over time and judges are not able to predict the future. It is because of this that changes may be made to custody or support agreements if they no longer suit the family. In order to receive a modification, the family must prove that the change in their lives is significant and ongoing.
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