Divorcing parents are often in conflict with one another. In addition, parents often want to ensure they can spend the most time with their child as possible, or they might not trust the other parent to adequately care for the child. For many reasons, one parent may claim that they want to get “sole custody” of their child. What are the chances of this happening in Georgia?
When determining custody, parents need to decide how to divide both physical custody (the time the child spends living with them) and legal custody (who can make which decisions for the child). Like other states, Georgia determines custody arrangements based on what is in the best interests of the child.
Generally speaking, the law indicates that continuing active relationships with both parents is usually in the best interest of the child, so joint custody – in some form – is the most common outcome. It can be extremely difficult to obtain sole custody unless there are extenuating circumstances. Such circumstances might include:
- One parent does not want to be involved in the child’s life
- One parent has engaged in conduct that might put the child at risk of physical or emotional harm, such as a history of child abuse
- One parent is moving too far away for joint custody to be feasible
- One parent was otherwise deemed unfit
Outside of situations similar to the above, it can be a difficult task to obtain sole custody, and parents should discuss their specific circumstances with an attorney.
Contact a Child Custody Lawyer in Greensboro to Learn More
If you are facing a child custody case, contact the E. J. Boswell Law Office for assistance. Call 706-417-8299 or contact us online to discuss your situation with an experienced Greensboro child custody attorney as soon as possible.