Family Law Term

Custody (Legal)

Definition

The right to make major decisions about a child's life: education, healthcare, religion, extracurricular activities. Can be sole (one parent decides) or joint (both parents decide together).

Related terms

Complaint
The initial legal document that starts a court case. In family court, this could be a Complaint for Divorce, Complaint for Custody, or Complaint for Support.
Contempt of Court
A finding that someone willfully violated a court order. Can result in fines, makeup parenting time, attorney fee awards, or jail time in extreme cases.
Custody (Physical)
Where the child lives day-to-day. The parent with primary physical custody is the "custodial parent." Shared physical custody means roughly equal time with both parents.
Custody Evaluation
A professional assessment by a psychologist or social worker who interviews both parents, the children, and other relevant parties. Results in a recommendation to the court.
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