Getting custody of a child can either be a very simple process or a very complicated one. 
It really depends upon the parents whether or not a child custody hearing will be simple and quick, or a long and drawn out conflict.  When it comes to the custody of a child, it is best for both parents to agree on as many points as possible, thereby avoiding a final ruling by family court.  This is because if such conflict cannot be avoided and both parents are equally fit, the family court will decide custody of a child based on two criteria:  1. “What is in the child’s best interests?”  2.  “Who is the child’s primary caregiver?”

How to Get Joint Custody of a Child

Currently, most family courts have recognized the important role that both the mother and father play in a child’s life, and if at all possible, they prefer to give joint custody.  If both parents are willing to be cooperative, then how to get joint custody of a child is fairly simple because this is what family courts wish to see happen.

The first step in how to get joint custody of a child is to sit down with the other parent and agree on as many points as possible.  If there is a family home and one parent wishes to stay in that home with the children, they can first petition the court for temporary child custody so that the children’s lives are interrupted as little as possible.  In this case, after the hearing for temporary custody of a child, the parents can talk about the visitation rights of the other parent.

If this can be worked out, then a permanent arrangement can be made at the next hearing and entered into the court record.  It is important to remember however, that joint custody that is agreed upon by the parents will take continual effort from both parents in order to maintain a regular visitation schedule and for the family court to stay completely out of it.

Taking Custody of a Child

If you are the parent who is going to have the custody of a child and you will remain in the family home, the only thing to do when taking custody of a child is to fill out the child custody form and attend a hearing.  If you are moving with the child, then you will establish the new residence first and then fill out the form and attend the hearing for temporary custody.