When parents go through a divorce or separation, one of the most important questions is: Who will the child live with? The answer often involves the role of a custodial parent. This term comes up a lot in family law cases, and it’s important to understand what it means and how it affects parenting rights and responsibilities.
In this blog, we’ll explain what a custodial parent is, how this role is determined, and what it means for both parents and children. Whether you’re in the middle of a custody case or just want to understand more about family law, this guide can help.
Who Is a Custodial Parent?
A custodial parent is the parent who has primary physical custody of the child. This means the child lives with them most of the time. The custodial parent is usually responsible for handling the child’s daily care, including meals, school routines, healthcare, and more.
In most cases, the custodial parent also receives child support from the other parent. Depending on the court’s decision, the non-custodial parent usually has visitation rights or shared parenting time.
If you’re trying to understand how custody affects financial responsibilities or day-to-day parenting, it’s helpful to read more about child custody laws, child support guidelines, or other related legal resources.
How Is a Custodial Parent Chosen?
Courts make custody decisions based on what is in the best interests of the child. That means the judge will look at many factors before deciding who the custodial parent should be, such as:
- The child’s relationship with each parent
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home
- The child’s school and community connections
- Any history of abuse or neglect
Sometimes, both parents can share custody equally. In those cases, neither parent is considered the sole custodial parent, and they both share responsibilities.
Custodial vs. Non-Custodial Parent
The custodial parent has the child most of the time. The non-custodial parent has the child less but may still have a strong relationship with the child through regular visits or parenting time.
Even if one parent is the custodial parent, both parents often share legal custody, which means they both help make decisions about the child’s health, education, and well-being.
What Rights Does a Custodial Parent Have?
Custodial parents have the right to:
- Make decisions concerning the child’s daily routine
- Make emergency medical decisions
- Enroll the child in school and activities
- Receive child support from the other parent
However, they must still follow court orders, including visitation schedules and shared legal custody rules. Violating these rules can lead to legal trouble.
How Does Custody Affect Other Areas of Family Law?
Custody arrangements can affect other legal matters like:
- Child support calculations
- Relocation requests
- Tax filings and exemptions
- Parental decision-making rights
Being a custodial parent means taking on a major role in your child’s life. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is key, whether you’ve been given full custody or are sharing it with your co-parent.
Contact the Columbus Divorce Lawyers at Atkins And Atkins, Attorneys At Law, LLC for Help Today With Your Family Law Case
For more information, contact our experienced Columbus family law & divorce attorneys at Atkins And Atkins, Attorneys At Law, LLC by calling (614) 485-8248 to schedule a consultation.
We serve all through Franklin County and its surrounding areas in Ohio. Visit our office at:
Atkins and Atkins, Attorneys at Law, LLC – Columbus Office
503 S Front St Suite 203, Columbus, OH 43215
(614) 485-8248
