All child custody decisions in Connecticut are based on what serves the best interests of the child. While it is important for both parents to be involved in a child’s life, the court does not always determine that both parents are entitled to 50% equal custody. A Connecticut family court judge has wide discretion when determining child custody percentages. If you are currently involved in a custody case, it is crucial to consult with an experienced family law attorney in order to present your case effectively.
There is No Automatic 50/50 Child Custody in Connecticut
Is Connecticut a 50/50 custody state? The short answer is no; there is no automatic 50/50 custody arrangement. Every parent has a constitutional right to be involved in their child’s upbringing, however, this does not guarantee an equal 50% custody arrangement. Instead, all child custody matters are decided based on the ‘best interest of the child’ standard.”
In order to determine which type of custody arrangement is in the best interest of the child, a family court judge is required to evaluate various factors. Relevant factors include the child’s physical and emotional safety, developmental needs, and the child’s relationship with each parent and siblings. The court also evaluates each parent’s ability and willingness to meet the child’s needs, as well as their commitment to encouraging a healthy, ongoing relationship between the child and the other parent. As expected, any history of coercion, parental alienation, or abuse can also play a significant role in the court’s decision.
Legal and Physical Custody in Connecticut
Every Connecticut child custody case involves determining two distinct types of custody: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody refers to the authority to make major life decisions for the child, such as those related to schooling, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Physical custody, on the other hand, determines which parent the child physically lives with and who is responsible for making decisions regarding the child’s everyday care and wellbeing.
Understanding the Different Between Sole and Joint Child Custody
The state of Connecticut also further distinguishes whether the custody is awarded as sole or joint. Custody arrangements can vary widely. For instance, one parent may have sole custody, both parents may share joint custody, or there may be a customized combination that reflects the family’s unique circumstances.
In sole legal custody, only one parent has the exclusive authority to make the major decisions about the child’s life. This includes full authority over crucial matters such as the child’s schooling, health decisions, religious upbringing, and other important decisions concerning the child’s upbringing. In a joint legal custody situation, both parents are equally responsible to make the important decisions regarding the child’s life. A joint legal custody arrange will require both parents’ collaboration and working together.
Sole physical custody means the child lives full time with one parent, who is solely responsible for the child’s daily care and decisions. In joint physical custody, the child resides with both parents, the duration at each parent’s house depending upon the custody schedule (it may not be 50/50 split with each parent.) It is important to note that even if a sole physical custody arrangement, this does not mean the other parent will not see their child. While a child may have primary residence with one parent, the other parent will typically still have fair visitation the with the child to continue a relationship, unless of course it is deemed harmful to the best interest of the child.
Contact Merino Family Law for Help With Your Connecticut Child Custody Matter
At Merino Family Law, our firm focuses exclusively on family law because we know how important family is. Our dedicated legal team is committed to protecting the best interests of children while advocating strongly for our clients’ parental rights. If you are currently in or going to be entering a custody battle, you do not need to do it alone. Your family is too important to risk navigating this process without the right legal support by your side. Contact Merino Family Law for trusted guidance in your Connecticut child custody matter.