In Connecticut child custody is divided into two types: legal and physical. Whoever receives legal custody has the right to make important decisions on the childs behalf. Physical custody is also referred to as primary residence and it aligns with whichever parent (if not both) has the child living with them the majority of the time. Joint legal custody is the most common arrangement because it gives both parents an equal voice in bringing up the children. In some circumstances granting sole legal and physical custody to one parent is more advisable depending on several factors of your child custody case. Should that happen the other parent generally receives a fair visitation schedule. Under Connecticut law there is a presumption that joint legal custody is in the best interests of the children (C. G. S. 46b-56a(b)). In exceptional circumstances such as those involving physical or substance abuse sole legal custody may be rewarded. Child custody is a central issue in family courts throughout the United States and Connecticut is no different. Under ideal circumstances a divorcing couple will negotiate their own agreement regarding custody and visitation but if the break is a contentious one chances are that custody will be another matter that they fight over. It is critical to seek the help of a Connecticut child custody attorney who may be able to protect your rights and your childs best interests. Call us at the McConnell Law Firm today at (860) 467-1455 to learn more about how we can help. The Best Interests of the Children Judges decide custody by determining what arrangement is in the best interests of the children. Connecticut General Statutes Sections 46b through 56(c) note several factors that may be taken into account in reaching a decision. They include: The childs own preference The ability of each parent to provide a stable home environment Which parent has the ability and availability to be active in the childs life The stability of the childs current home environment Length of time spent in the current home environment How adjusted the child is to his or her present home and school situation Whether or not the child has special needs and if so which parent may be more suited to meet those needs Any interference by one parent in the other parents relationship with the child Any history of child abuse or domestic violence Misconduct by either parent during the fight over custody Any other factor the court deems relevant Connecticut couples who are separating/getting divorced and have children under the age of 18 are required to participate in a parenting education program within 60 days after filing their case in family court. This program consists of approximately six hours worth of classes that teach parents how to help their children adjust to divorce. Greenwich child custody attorney What Does Primary Physical Custody Mean In Connecticut custody laws make a distinction between legal and physical custody. Physical custody determines which parent the child primarily lives with while legal custody is responsible for making significant decisions about the childs education medical care and extracurricular activities if the parents cannot agree. When both parents have physical custody it is called joint physical custody and the child spends significant time with each parent which may not be equal. Alternatively when one parent holds primary physical custody and the other is granted limited visitation rights this arrangement is called sole physical custody. Advocates for sole custody might contend that it offers greater stability and security for the child. Regardless of the custody structure one parent is identified as the primary custodial parent while the other is referred to as the noncustodial parent. Visitation laws in Connecticut guarantee a minimum amount of visitation time for the noncustodial parent with their child. Although parents can develop their own custody agreements it is crucial to consult an experienced Connecticut child custody attorney to establish an arrangement that prioritizes the childs best interests. Call us at the McConnell Law Firm today at (203) 541-5520 to learn more about how our skilled Connecticut child custody lawyers can help. Factors Explanation Legal and Physical Custody Connecticut courts consider both legal and physical custody arrangements. Legal custody gives a parent the right to make important decisions on behalf of the child while physical custody refers to where the child primarily resides. Joint legal custody is presumed to be in the best interest of the child but sole legal and physical custody may be granted in exceptional circumstances such as those involving physical or substance abuse. Best Interests of the Child Connecticut courts make custody decisions based on what is in the best interests of the child. Factors that may be considered include the childs preference stability of the home environment ability of each parent to be active in the childs life length of time spent in the current home environment the childs adjustment to their current home and school situation whether the child has special needs and which parent may be better suited to meet those needs any history of child abuse or domestic violence misconduct by either parent during the fight over custody and any other relevant factors. Parenting Education Program Connecticut couples who are separating or getting divorced and have children under the age of 18 are required to participate in a parenting education program within 60 days after filing their case in family court. This program consists of approximately six hours worth of classes that teach parents how to help their children adjust to divorce. What This Means for You Child custody arrangements are an important part of a separation or divorce so it is essential to have an experienced family law team on your side as you navigate the complexities of legal paperwork and courtroom protocols. At the McConnell Family Law Group we work to help you preserve your relationship with your children and see that it continues beyond the conclusion of the separation process or divorce action whether it be in the form of legal and/or physical custody or a fair visitation agreement. Attorneys from the McConnell Family Law Group practice throughout Connecticut. If you would like more information about child custody or any other family law issue contact us at (203) 541-5520 to schedule your appointment today. via McConnell Family Law Group https://www.mcconnellfamilylaw.com/connecticut-courts-consider-ruling-child-custody/