Connecticut courts decide custody based on the best interest of the child. The relevant factors are listed in Connecticut General Statutes § 46b-56.
Legal custody refers to decision-making authority for major issues — education, health care, religion. Physical custody refers to where the child resides and the parenting time schedule.
Joint legal custody is common where both parents can communicate and cooperate. Sole legal custody may be appropriate where they cannot.
A parenting plan addresses the regular schedule, holidays, vacations, transportation, communication between parents, and decision-making procedures.
Custody orders can be modified later upon a material change in circumstances and a showing that modification serves the child's best interest.
This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. For guidance on a specific matter, contact the office.