Going through a divorce can be a trying and stressful time for couples that are figuring out how they are going to split everything into two. This stress is often magnified when children are involved, especially when both parents play an active role in the children’s lives. For those parents considering or beginning the divorce process in Georgia, it is important to be aware of the child custody options available to them. Legal professionals in the family law field can be incredibly helpful in this area.
Over the past couple of decades, the typical child custody arrangement has changed, often allowing both parents to have nearly equal time with the children, rather than awarding a single party sole custody. However, this is not always the case. In some instances, the mother is awarded custody, while the father is left with visitation rights and child support payments.
The mother is often considered to be the main caregiver to children and, while this is not always the case, may be awarded primary custody. Research shows, though, that children who are able to spend time with and form quality relationships with both parents are less likely to drop out of school or commit crimes. For this reason, many custody agreements are moving toward joint or shared child custody.
It is largely up to the parents to decide what type of child custody arrangement they are going to put in place. Family lawyers in Georgia can assist parents in understanding what options are available to them. The two parties can then decide which agreement meets the best interests of their children.
Source: wsbt.com, “SPECIAL REPORT: Divorced fathers seek more time with their children“, Katlin Connin, Nov. 21, 2016