Child custody is decided by attempting to determine what is in the child’s best interest. Many factors are used to determine best Interests. Some of the main considerations in determining what is in the child’s best interest are:

1. The parent’s ability to cooperate to meet the child’s needs
2. The relationship of child to it each parent
3. The wishes of the child
4. The child’s physical, developmental, and emotional needs
5. Maintaining sibling relationships
6. The level of conflict between the parents
7. Abduction, Neglect, Abandonment, and Domestic Violence

* This list is not exhaustive and other factors may  still apply

LEGAL CUSTODY

Legal Custody is the legal right of a parent to participate in the major life decisions of their child. In Nevada, parents have a fundamental right to have access to, and to make decisions for, their child. Legal Custody normally includes decisions and information affecting the welfare of the child and is most commonly seen in the following areas:

• Medical
• Religion
• Education
• Other Major Life Decisions

PHYSICAL CUSTODY

Physical Custody refers to the residence and day-to-day care of the child.  A Physical custody determination takes into consideration the practical realities faced by the parents and awards each parent time with the child. Physical Custody for parents is normally assigned as Sole, Primary, or Joint Physical Custody.

JOINT PHYSICAL CUSTODY

Joint Physical Custody favored as it is normally in the child’s best interest to have time with both parents.

Joint Physical Custody means that both parents split the physical and legal responsibilities for the child.  Joint Custody can mean an equal timeshare (50/50) with a child, but parents can also share Joint Custody even if the timeshare is slightly unequal or 60/40 in one parent’s favor.

WHEN WILL A JUDGE ORDER JOINT PHYSICAL CUSTODY?

While Joint Physical Custody is favored, it is not a guaranteed outcome. Joint Physical Custody  is normally awarded when both parents have frequent contact with the child and share the rights and responsibilities of child after the parents separate.

Child custody is seen in many Family Law cases.  Custody is addressed in paternity, custody, divorce, legal separation, visitation, child support, relocation, grandparents’ rights, and other child-related matters. With a compassionate, experienced attorney on your side your rights, and those of your child, will be protected. Contact us at (702) 776-7179 or schedule a consultation at https://jacovinolaw.com