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Types of Custody 101

On Behalf of | Jun 30, 2017 | Child Custody

Under Pennsylvania Law, the court may award any of the following types of custody over a minor child to parents and or third parties with standing if it is in the best interest* of the minor child.

*Make sure to check out the blog on the 16 Best Interest Custody Factors.

1. Shared physical custody. This generally means that the parents and or a parent and a third party with standing share custody of the minor child on a 50/50 basis. This 50/50 basis is reflected in a custody schedule with equal custodial time to both parents and or a parent and a third party with standing.

2. Primary physical custody. This generally means that one parent and or one third party with standing has more than shared custodial time with the minor child. It is very difficult, but not impossible, for a third party with standing to obtain primary physical custody.

3. Partial physical custody. Partial physical custody generally refers to a parent and or third party with standing having some custodial time with the minor child. Partial is less than shared but can include overnight visitation.

4. Supervised physical custody. This generally means that one parent and or one third party with standing has custodial time that is supervised by a neutral third party and or agency. Supervised physical custody is often recommended when there are legitimate concerns over the safety of the minor child while in that parent’s and or third party’s care.

5. Shared legal custody. This generally means that the parents and or a parent and a third party with standing share in the decision making power over things including but not limited to, school choice, medical providers, religious affiliation, and or other similar decisions regarding the minor child.

6. Sole legal custody. This generally means that one of the parents and or one third party with standing has sole decision making power over things including but not limited to, school choice, medical providers, religious affiliation, and or other similar decisions regarding the minor child.

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