When couples are considering divorce and have a minor child, family law may be their first introduction to the complexities of the legal system. Most parents make assumptions regarding custody that may not hold true if a case goes to court. For example, many people assume that sole custody determines who gets to make all of the decisions for a child. However, that would actually be sole legal custody (as opposed to physical custody). Most courts in the U.S. now work with the assumption that parents should share important decision making whenever possible. Family law is designed not only to protect each party in a divorce, but to ensure that children are provided for financially. Because of this, each state has an agency that is devoted to enforcing child support orders. These agencies also cooperate with the Federal government to enforce orders across state lines. Non-custodial parents who attempt to avoid paying court ordered support can face steep penalties.