Types of Child Custody

When it comes to child custody, the best interest of the child should be the top priority. When trying to decide what is best for the child, it is important that you know what types of options you have. Below we have defined the different types of child custody for you:

Legal Custody: When a parent has legal custody they have the legal authority to make decisions about the child's health, upbringing, and education. This means the parent with legal custody can decide what kind of medical treatment the child will receive, where they will attend school, and what religion the child will practice.

Physical Custody: This is one of the most commonly known types of child custody. In this case the parent has the right to have the child live with him of her.

Sole Custody: There are two types of sole custody, sole legal custody and sole physical custody. If there is alcohol or drug issues the court can award sole custody to the other parent. Even if a parent has sole physical custody, a judge could rule that both parents make joint decisions on the child's upbringing.

Joint Custody: Also known as shared custody, this term is used to describe when both parents, who no longer live together, share the decision making responsibilities and/or physical custody of the child. There are three different types of joint custody: joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both joint legal and physical custody.

If you are just starting the process of divorce, or are needing to resolve child custody issues McCarron Law Firm can provide the representation you need.

McCarron Law Firm proudly serves the McLean County area. Located in downtown Bloomington, we can help families navigate through the legal system and provide accurate advice and strategy. McCarron Law Firm represents clients throughout Central Illinois, including Normal, Carlock, Eureka, Pontiac, Peoria, Champaign, Pekin, Lincoln, Lexington, Hudson, Heyworth and Clinton, and all of McLean County, Livingston County, DeWitt County, Woodford County, DeWitt County and Tazewell County. Call today to schedule your free consultation. 309-820-1010