The dynamics of family life have evolved significantly over the years. Today, when marriages or relationships break down, it’s commonplace for parents to seek joint custody of their children.
Yet, some parents choose to fight for sole custody. There are a host of factors that can contribute to this decision.
What is sole custody?
Sole custody refers to a scenario where one co-parent has primary physical and legal responsibility for their child or children. Essentially, an affected child primarily resides with one parent, and that parent has the authority to make major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as education, healthcare and religious upbringing.
One of the fundamental principles guiding child custody decisions is the child’s best interests. Courts consider the child’s emotional, physical and psychological well-being when determining custody arrangements under litigated circumstances. In some cases, sole custody may be deemed in the child’s best interests due to a family’s unique situation.
Reasons for seeking sole custody
A primary reason some parents seek sole custody is due to safety concerns. These concerns may involve situations where one parent has a history of substance abuse, domestic violence or any behavior that risks the child’s well-being. In such cases, courts may be inclined to award sole custody to the other parent to help ensure the child’s safety.
Moreover, in situations where one parent has shown a consistent lack of involvement in the child’s life, the other parent may seek sole custody. A genuine absence of emotional and financial support can be a strong motivator for pursuing sole custody.
The decision to seek sole custody of children can be a complex one. If you’re considering pursuing sole custody of your child, seek legal guidance to better understand whether your goal is realistic and how to achieve a resolution to your case that truly reflects your child’s best interests.