What Custody Arrangements Can be Made in New Jersey?

Going through a divorce is complicated and emotionally draining. This is even more so when children are involved in the process. In these cases, matters of child custody are taken into question. Parents who are going through a divorce must establish a plan for their children. If they are unable to do so on their own, the assistance of the court may be necessary. These situations can be difficult, which is why it is important to handle them sensitively. It is because of this that a compassionate attorney should be retained for help achieving the desired outcome. 

Types of Custody Arrangements

When establishing a custody arrangement, it is important to know that there are different ways to accomplish this. Not every custody agreement is the same for every family, which is why it is important to create a plan that suits your family and the best interests of the child. The following are the different types of custody arrangements in New Jersey:

• Physical Custody: This determines the parent with whom the child spends the majority of their time. In other words, it is the child the parent lives with. This parent is the primary caretaker, meaning they must provide the child with basic stability, a home, food, clothing, etc.
• Legal Custody: This type of custody allows a parent to have influence in their child’s life. In obtaining legal custody, a parent has the right to be involved in making important decisions regarding the upbringing of their child. This can include matters of education, religion, healthcare, and general well-being. It is important to know that a parent does not need to have physical custody in order to obtain legal custody.

Factors Considered

When the court is given the right to determine a child’s custody situation, it is important to know that they are required by law to do so with the child’s best interest in mind. They do not base their decisions on the desires of the parent. In order to have the best understanding of what is best for a child, the court considers various factors relating to the life of the child, the parents, and the relationship between them. This can include the following:

• If a parent can provide stability in the child’s current life (home, school, activities, etc)
• If the parent will act in the child’s best interest
• The relationship between the child and each parent
• The physical health and safety of the child
• What the child needs
• The geographical proximity of each parent’s home
• The preference of the child if they are of sufficient age

Contact our Firm

If you need an experienced legal team to guide you through your divorce, contact Townsend, Tomaio & Newmark L.L.C today.