Child custody can refer to where your children will live after divorce (physical custody), or who has the legal right to make decisions about their upbringing (legal custody). In each scenario, parents may jointly share the responsibility or the courts may award one parent solely. Below are some key terms to better understand child custody laws.

What do I need to file for child custody?

Written Submissions to the Court. 1 Phone Call Logs. Both parents should keep a diary of all phone calls made between the child and the parent who does not currently have custody. The 2 Visitation Schedules. 3 Your Child’s Records.

What are the different types of child custody arrangements?

Types of Child Custody Arrangements Child custody can refer to where your children will live after divorce (physical custody), or who has the legal right to make decisions about their upbringing (legal custody). In each scenario, parents may jointly share the responsibility or the courts may award one parent solely.

How to file proof of service in child custody case?

After the papers are hand-delivered to the other parent, be sure to get back the form showing proof of service from the person who delivered the papers. This will be your proof to the judge that the other parent received the complaint. File the proof of service in person or by mail with the court.

Why do fathers lose custody after a divorce?

If the father starts dating before the divorce is final and allows guests to stay overnight – this could damage his custody case if friends or family testify to such behavior. If he brings strange women home, the court may be disinclined to give him custody of the children.

Can a married man have full custody of a child in South Africa?

As part of the laws protecting children’s rights in South Africa, based on Section 20 of the Children’s Act No 38 of 2005, the biological married father of a baby has full parental rights and responsibilities if: any time between the child’s conception and birth.

What happens if one parent is awarded sole custody?

Abuse or Neglect: Courts will limit a parent’s contact with the children if there is evidence of abuse or neglect. If one parent is awarded sole physical or legal custody, the noncustodial parent is usually required to make child support payments to the custodial parent.