Family Law Term

Custody (Physical)

Definition

Where the child lives day-to-day. The parent with primary physical custody is the "custodial parent." Shared physical custody means roughly equal time with both parents.

Related terms

Contempt of Court
A finding that someone willfully violated a court order. Can result in fines, makeup parenting time, attorney fee awards, or jail time in extreme cases.
Custody (Legal)
The right to make major decisions about a child's life: education, healthcare, religion, extracurricular activities. Can be sole (one parent decides) or joint (both parents decide together).
Custody Evaluation
A professional assessment by a psychologist or social worker who interviews both parents, the children, and other relevant parties. Results in a recommendation to the court.
Default Judgment
A ruling entered when one party fails to respond to a court filing within the required timeframe. The filing party may get everything they requested.
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