Sole custody, also known as full custody, is a child custody arrangement in which one parent is granted the exclusive legal and physical custody of the child or children. This means the custodial parent has the sole authority to make all important decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, including their education, healthcare, religion, and general well-being.
The non-custodial parent usually has visitation rights, which may include scheduled parenting time, holidays, and vacations. However, the child’s primary residence is with the custodial parent, responsible for the child’s day-to-day care and decision-making.
Courts award sole custody in situations deemed in the child’s best interests. This may occur when one parent is deemed unfit or unable to provide the child with proper care and guidance or when there is a history of any domestic violence, substance abuse, or other factors that could potentially harm the child’s well-being.
While the non-custodial parent may have some visitation rights, they do not have the legal authority to make significant decisions for the child without the custodial parent’s consent. The custodial parent provides a nurturing, stable environment for the child’s physical, emotional, and developmental needs.
Sole custody arrangements are not permanent and can be modified if significant changes in circumstances warrant a reevaluation. The child’s best interests remain the paramount consideration.