When it comes to divorces or separations, custody agreements are a crucial part of the process. In a custody agreement, parents outline the terms and conditions of their parenting plan. Custody agreements aim to provide clarity and stability for both the parents and the children involved.

There are several types of custody agreements, but the most common one is joint legal custody with physical custody to one parent. In this scenario, both parents share legal custody, which means they have equal decision-making authority when it comes to important issues related to the child`s upbringing. However, only one parent has physical custody of the child, which means the child lives with them most of the time.

Joint legal custody is popular as it allows both parents to play an active role in their child`s life. Parents can make decisions regarding healthcare, education, and religious upbringing together. However, one parent has physical custody, which means they`re responsible for the child`s day-to-day needs. This includes things like meals, transportation to and from school and extracurricular activities, and bedtime routines.

In some cases, parents may agree to a shared physical custody arrangement, which means the child spends an equal amount of time with both parents. Shared physical custody can be an excellent option for parents who live close to one another and want to ensure their child has a meaningful relationship with both parents.

Another type of custody agreement is sole custody, where one parent has both legal and physical custody of the child. This is less common as it`s often in the child`s best interests to have a relationship with both parents. However, sole custody may be appropriate if one parent is unfit to care for the child due to substance abuse, mental health issues, or a history of domestic violence.

In conclusion, joint legal custody with physical custody to one parent is the most common custody agreement. It allows for both parents to play an active role in their child`s life while also providing stability and routine for the child. However, every family is unique, and the right custody agreement will depend on the specific circumstances of each case. It`s essential to work with an experienced family law attorney to ensure the best outcome for all involved.