This arrangement signifies that one parent provides the main home for the child, and is responsible for their routine daily care and supervision. It entails the child residing primarily with this parent, who is often referred to as the custodial parent. For instance, if a child lives with their mother five days a week and with their father two days a week, the mother likely has this form of custody.
The establishment of such a custodial arrangement offers stability and consistency for the child, promoting a sense of normalcy amidst family restructuring. It simplifies logistical aspects of raising the child, such as school enrollment and medical appointments, by centralizing these responsibilities with one parent. Historically, societal norms often favored the mother in these determinations, but contemporary legal practices increasingly prioritize the child’s best interests, considering various factors like each parents ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment.
