Fast Facts

• From a legal standpoint there are two types of custody: physical and legal. The physical parent is the one who physically resides with the child the majority of the time, while the legal custodian is the one who is obligated to make legal, religious, educational and health-related decisions for the child.
• If a couple cannot resolve their custody disagreements without resorting to litigation, the judge may appoint a guardian ad litem who works for the benefit of the child alone. The guardian ad litem will talk with the child (depending on age) and may interview others to find the best situation for the child.