Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton
Los Angeles Child Custody and Family Law Attorneys
Child Custody is often the most contentious part of any family law case. The Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton understands that there is nothing more important than your children and their well-being. We are of the opinion that in order to have a meaningful discussion on custody, visitation, parenting plans, etc., parents must understand some legal basics.
Child Custody is divided into two types: legal custody and physical custody.
WHAT IS LEGAL CUSTODY?
Legal custody refers to the right a parent has to make decisions relating to a child’s health, safety, and welfare. A parent can have “sole legal custody” or “joint legal custody”
SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY
California Family Code Section 3006 explains what “sole legal custody” means in the legal context:
One parent shall have the right and the responsibility to make the decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child.
JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY
California Family Code Section 3003 explains what “joint legal custody” means in the legal context:
Both parents shall share the right and the responsibility to make the decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child
<h3″>WHAT IS PHYSICAL CUSTODY?
Just like legal custody, physical custody is divided into two categories: sole physical custody and joint physical custody.
SOLE PHYSICAL CUSTODY
California Family Code Section 3007 explains what “sole physical custody” means in the legal context:
A child shall reside with and be under the supervision of one parent, subject to the power of the court to order visitation.
JOINT PHYSICAL CUSTODY
California Family Code Section 3004 explains what “joint physical custody” means in the legal context:
Each of the parents shall have significant periods of physical custody. Joint physical custody shall be shared by the parents in such a way so as to assure a child of frequent and continuing contact with both parents.
If you have any questions, contact Los Angeles Child Custody Lawyers and Family Law Attorneys at The Law Offices of Cathleen E. Norton (310) 300-4021.