In Georgia and elsewhere, joint custody is the arrangement of choice when parents are divorcing. However, there are reasons as to why it is not always the best option. When is a sole child custody arrangement really what is best for the child?
If there are concerns of one parent being abusive or suffering with drug and/or alcohol addiction, then a sole custody arrangement may provide the child with the environment needed for optimal safety, growth and development. Sole custody is when only one parent is awarded physical and legal custody of his or her child. The other parent may or may not be given visitation rights — it all depends on the facts of the case.
In a sole custody arrangement, the custodial parent has the final say about all important life decisions regarding his or her child. The noncustodial parent has absolutely no say in how his or her child is to be raised. If the custodial parent wants to relocate then, if the noncustodial parent has visitation rights, the custodial parent has to seek court permission before moving with the child.
Sole child custody is not the ideal in most situations, but for a few it really does serve the best interests of the affected children. Seeking this arrangement is not a battle that will be easily won. One must prove that there is a valid reason for it. An experienced family law attorney can assist parents in Georgia as they seek this or any other custody arrangement that will best serve their children’s needs.
Source: FindLaw, “Sole Custody“, Accessed on July 11, 2017