Child Custody and Child Support
Understand parental custody, visitation rights, and how child support is determined when parents divorce or separate.
When parents divorce or separate, the most sensitive issue is usually the children — who exercises custody, how the other parent sees them, and how much child support should be.
What is parental custody?
Parental power (custody) is the right and duty of parents to care for, raise, decide the residence of, and manage the property of a minor child. On divorce the parties may agree that:
- one parent holds sole custody, or
- both parents share custody.
If they cannot agree, the court decides, guided above all by the best interests of the child.
What the court considers
Courts typically weigh factors such as:
- The bond between the child and each parent
- Readiness to provide care — home, time, and resources
- The child’s own views (according to age and maturity)
- Stability and an environment suitable for growth
Visitation rights
Even a parent who does not hold custody still has a reasonable right to contact and see the child. Setting a clear visitation schedule reduces long-term conflict.
Child support
Parents have a duty to support their children until they reach the age of majority. Support is usually determined by:
- The child’s needs — education, medical care, and daily living costs
- The payer’s ability — income and means
- The standard of living the child previously enjoyed
Support can be adjusted if circumstances change significantly.
Conclusion
Matters concerning children should always start from the best interests of the child. Clear agreements on custody, visitation, and support help everyone — especially the child — receive proper care.