When parents separate or divorce in Louisiana, the courts will assess several factors within their family’s circumstances that can help determine which type of custody is most suited for their child’s best interests.
In this blog, we will discuss three types of custody provisions in Louisiana:
Sole custody
When a parent has a sole custody order, they will be the only one who has physical and legal custody of their child. This means that they are fully responsible for raising their child and in making important decisions about their upbringing.
Similar to being a solo parent, sole custody means that they have no obligation to keep their ex updated with their lives. However, there are also cases where their ex has supervised visits with their child.
Joint custody
When both parents have legal custody of their child but not equal physical custody, this arrangement is called joint custody. In this setup, the child will live with one parent most of the time, with the other parent following the schedule of their court-approved parenting plan.
Since both parents have legal custody, they can share important decisions that pertain to their child’s upbringing.
Shared custody
When both parents have legal custody of their child and equal physical custody, this arrangement is called shared custody. In this setup, the child will spend an equal amount of time living with each parent.
Like joint custody, both parents can share decisions over important matters that revolve around their child’s upbringing.
Take it one step at a time
By learning about the state’s varying custody arrangements, you can become more familiar with the responsibilities that you will soon be sharing with your ex. This step can be beneficial as you prepare your child for their new living situation and ensure that they can adjust to the changes at their own pace.