If you’re thinking about getting a divorce or legal separation, it’s likely that you’ve heard of child custody at least a time or two. What does it actually mean, though? What can you expect from the process?

Filing for custody can be a difficult process in court, including the emotional toll it can take. Rely on family law attorneys like the ones here at The Fairell Firm in Atlanta to assist you through the process of gaining legal custody of your children.

There are two main types of child custody: physical custody and legal custody.

Physical custody determines which parent your child will live with.

Legal custody determines which parent can make major decisions for the child.

Many people assume the two types of child custody are sole and joint custody. While this is partially true, it really comes down to physical and legal custody. Within each, the judge can rule for joint or sole custody.

If you were to have joint physical custody of your child, for example, you would create a schedule for when your child would stay with you and when they would stay with your ex. If you were to have sole legal custody , for example, you would be the only parent who could make decisions pertaining to topics like schooling, extracurricular activities, health, and religion (among others).

Divorce has great potential to get messy, and it can get even messier when children are involved and both parents want custody. You don’t want to increase your chances of not being with your child as much as possible, which is why you should hire an experienced custody lawyer to work in your defense.

Filing for custody won’t be something you can do without previous experience, especially when you’re dealing with the emotional and financial tolls of divorce and are trying to keep up at work as much as possible. Instead, it’s wise — and kind to yourself — to find a family law firm and hire a custody lawyer with a track record of helping clients gain legal or physical custody (or both).

Custody attorneys can let you know certain things to be aware of when seeking child custody and offer many tips for parents in the process of filing for custody .

Getting started and looking for child custody lawyers? You can count on the family law experts at The Fairell Firm. We’re based in Atlanta and are a team of compassionate, empowering women who will help you move on to your next stage in life — with your children right by your side if possible.

We can’t, of course, guarantee with certainty that we’ll establish sole custody for you. We will, however, guarantee to work hard and try to make your dream a reality. We’re Top Rated Local® Georgia attorneys and would love to offer our services to you. Contact us today.