Types of Child Custody Arrangements in Tampa: Joint, Sole, and Shared
One of the crucial aspects to consider when going through a divorce or separation is child custody. Child custody laws in Tampa help determine which parent gets legal and physical custody during divorce or separation, and such a decision seeks to protect the child’s interest. It is the decision of the child’s care, control, and maintenance by either or both parents.
Forms of Child Custody Arrangements in Tampa
Tampa has a variety of custody arrangements with each of these types having their pros and cons. It is important to know the differences so that we can make a more informed decision favoring what is best for your child.
Joint Custody
Joint custody is one of the main types of custody in Tampa. It is a child custody arrangement where they share legal and physical custody of their child. This arrangement allows both parents to be able to take their part in the responsibility of caring for and making choices that are important to the child’s upbringing and welfare. The notion is that joint custody protects the child’s best interests; that is, kids benefit from having close ties to both parents.
The child spends his or her time between the homes of both parents, and a family’s specific needs may dictate when and how the child would spend time with each parent while under this custody. With this arrangement, parents have to cooperate with one another in supporting the child and communicating with each other so that they can meet the needs of the child.
Sole Custody
Sole custody is a child custody solution where only one of the parents has legal and physical custody of the youngster is sole custody. This means this parent can determine all important matters regarding the raising of the child, including matters such as religious instruction, health care, and education. If the court rules in favor of one of the parents, there may not be any involvement of the other in the child’s life, or visitation may have been limited.
This arrangement offers a single, reliable authority to the youngsters so that they can feel less confused and less unstable. If it deprives the other parent of involvement in his child’s life, it can be very difficult for both the parent and his child. But in some circumstances, sole custody may be needed. However, courts generally believe in set-ups that permit both parents to remain active in the child’s life.
Shared Custody
Under a shared custody agreement (also known as shared parenting or alternating custody), both parents may or may not have equal parenting obligations and time with their kids. It is a kind of custody that provides the child with high parental involvement and flexible scheduling.
Under shared child custody, parents are together in keeping with the raised child while still encouraging cooperation and candid dialogue. This arrangement is often seen favorably by courts as it promotes the emotional well-being of the child and preserves close relationships with both parents. Since the parents are actually involved and not just dropping off kids at school and picking them up, shared custody can feel safer and more supportive for kids.
However, joint custody means significant parental cooperation and communication. Parental agreements may differ on who will have child custody or on how children should be parented — either would impact a child’s emotional well-being. For joint custody to work, parents will need to be willing to compromise and put their child’s needs first.
Conclusion
Tampa parents can explore any type of child custody options while prioritizing the child’s best interest. You can consult with our professional family lawyer to figure out the best option for you and how to have a seamless legal process.