Sole Legal, Physical and Joint Custody
The standard applied in awarding custody, visitation and child support is what is in the best interest and welfare of the child. The feelings and legitimate claims of the parents should be given some consideration; however, they are not controlling and must yield to what appears to be for the best interests of the children. The different type of custody arangements are described as Sole Legal Custody (the sole right to make major decisions affecting the child's life), Physical Custody ( the actual, physical possession and control of the child), and Joint Custody which means joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both. Where sole custody is awarded to one parent, the other parent is usually given reasonable visitation rights. Visitation schedules depend upon the age of the child and the geographical proximity of the custodial and non-custodial parent.

Factors of "Best Interest of a Child"
· Fitness of the parent
· The character and reputation of the parties
· The desire of the natural parents and the consent of any agreement between the parties
· The potentiality of maintaining natural family relations
· The preference of the child
· Any material opportunities affecting the child
· The age, health and sex of the child
· The suitability of the residence of the parents
· Length of separation from the parents
· The effect of any prior voluntary abandonment or surrender of custody of the child
· Best interests of the child
· Willingness of each parent to share custody
· Psychological fitness of each parent
· Strength of relationship between the child and each parent
· Potential disruption of child's social and school life
· Geographic proximity of parents' homes
· Demands of parental employment
· Age and number of children involved
· Sincerity of parent's request
· Financial status of parents
· Impact on state or federal assistance
· Benefit to parents