Texas law generally recognizes the importance of a child having a close relationship with both of his or her parents after a divorce. Therefore, it isn’t uncommon for both parents to share physical custody rights to their children. Take a closer look at what it means to have 50/50 physical custody rights to your son or daughter.
What is physical custody?
If you have physical custody of your child, it means that he or she can stay overnight at your home. It also means that you are considered to be one of the child’s primary caretakers, which generally means that you’ll have legal custody rights as well. Legal custody provides you with the opportunity to provide input into where your child will go to school or what type of religious community he or she will be raised in.
What is split custody?
Split custody refers to the fact that you and your former spouse share the same rights to your children. This might also mean that neither parent is required to make support payments to the other. However, the final terms of a child custody agreement will take your income, expenses and other factors into account before determining if this is true in your situation.
If you are going through a divorce, it may be a good idea to consult with an attorney. He or she may be able to develop a strategy that maximizes your chances of obtaining legal or physical custody of your child. For instance, legal counsel may point out that you have recently moved to a new home closer to where your child lives as a reason why you would be fit to be his or her primary caretaker.