What is primary custody?

Primary custody refers to the legal arrangement in which one parent has the majority of physical custody and decision-making authority for a child. This parent is often referred to as the custodial parent, while the other parent is known as the non-custodial parent. Primary custody determinations are typically made during divorce or separation proceedings, and are based on the best interests of the child.

In a primary custody arrangement, the custodial parent is responsible for providing the child with a stable home environment, meeting their daily needs, and making major decisions regarding their upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. The non-custodial parent usually has visitation rights and may be required to pay child support to help with the child's expenses.

Primary custody arrangements can be either sole or joint. In a sole custody arrangement, one parent has complete physical and legal custody of the child, while in a joint custody arrangement, both parents share physical custody and decision-making authority. Joint custody arrangements are becoming more common as courts recognize the importance of maintaining relationships with both parents for the well-being of the child.