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If I have sole custody can I decide who is competent enough to babysit my child?

If I have sole custody can I decide who is competent enough to babysit my child?

Full question:

If I have sole custody of my daughter, who decides who is and is not a competent adult to pick her up? It is his weekend and wants the girlfriend to watch her until he gets off of shift the next day.

Category: Divorce
Subcategory: Child Custody
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Texas

Answer:

It would be up to the judge to determine that only the father can pick up the children, probably based on showing the girlfriend was a threat to them.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Does sole custody mean full custody?

Sole custody typically refers to one parent having the primary legal and physical responsibility for the child. This means that the custodial parent makes major decisions about the child's upbringing, including education and healthcare. However, it does not always mean full custody, as the non-custodial parent may still have visitation rights or shared parenting responsibilities. The specifics can vary based on court orders and state laws.

What is the biggest mistake in a custody battle?

One of the biggest mistakes in a custody battle is failing to prioritize the child's best interests. Parents may become overly focused on winning or retaliating against the other parent, which can negatively impact the child's well-being. It's crucial to maintain a cooperative approach and communicate effectively, as the court will evaluate each parent's ability to support the child's needs.

What are the advantages of sole physical custody?

The advantages of sole physical custody include providing a stable and consistent environment for the child, as they primarily live with one parent. This arrangement can simplify logistics, such as school and extracurricular activities, and may reduce conflict between parents. It also allows the custodial parent to make decisions without needing to consult the other parent, which can lead to more streamlined parenting.

What are the disadvantages of sole custody?

Disadvantages of sole custody can include potential feelings of isolation for the non-custodial parent and the child, as the child may have limited contact with the other parent. This arrangement can also place a heavy burden on the custodial parent, who must handle all parenting responsibilities alone. Additionally, sole custody may lead to disputes over visitation rights or parenting time.

Is sole custody the same thing as full custody?

Sole custody and full custody are often used interchangeably, but they can have different implications. Sole custody means one parent has primary responsibility for the child, while full custody may imply that the other parent has no custody rights at all. It's essential to understand the specific terms used in court orders, as they can vary by state and case.