Following a divorce, your primary concern may be the child custody arrangements. While courts do sometimes award one parent sole physical or legal custody, shared custody arrangements are becoming more popular, with one parent being named the primary parent. The Law Offices Of Paul Lenkowsky, family law attorneys based in Bullhead City, AZ, help parents understand what primary custody entails and how it benefits their children.

Under family law, shared child custody is often awarded in an attempt to maintain relationships between parents and their children. However, in some cases, one parent becomes the primary parent, while the other enjoys visitation and some legal rights. While children do benefit from having equal access to both parents, it's generally understood that they need stability to thrive. Having a primary residence, rather than shifting between two different homes, provides a sense of permanence, while allowing the non-custodial parent an opportunity to remain in their kids' lives.

The parent with primary physical custody bears a much larger share of the financial burden that comes with raising children, which is why the court will likely order the non-custodial parent to pay child support. However, having primary custody does not bestow a parent with full legal rights over their kids. The other parent will likely be granted the right to have some say over how their children are raised and participate in major life decisions.

Getting a divorce can be an extremely stressful, difficult process, which is why you need a family law attorney to help you arrange the child custody agreement that is best for your kids. Visit the Law Offices Of Paul Lenkowsky online to learn more about their range of practice areas, or schedule a consultation by calling (928) 758-4815 today.