Custodia

There are many reasons people choose not to file for custody. Some parents decide not to get a custody order because they don’t want to get the courts involved. Some parents make an informal agreement that works well for them. Some parents fear that starting a court case will provoke the other parent. They may worry that the other parent will fight for more custody or visits than they are comfortable with.

Even if the other parent is not involved with your child now, they may become involved when a case is filed in court. Also, if the other parent fights for custody, the case may drag on for a long time. This can be emotionally and financially draining. When you are in court for custody, the chancellor will look into many aspects of your personal life. For example, the chancellor may examine your mental health, criminal record, substance abuse issues, and relationships. You may prefer to keep these things private.

On the other hand, a custody order can set out what legal rights, which can be a benefit. A custody order can give you the legal rights to make decisions about your child and have your child live with you. Without an order, both parents may share these legal rights, even if one parent takes care of the child daily. The exception to this is when paternity has not been legally established. However, if you file for custody, the other parent may also request these rights. If you and the other parent don’t agree, the chancellor will decide which custody arrangement is best for your child.