Full Custody

May 16, 2023

What Is Full Custody? 

Often a client will say that he or she wants “full custody.”  However, “full custody” does not mean anything specific.

Legal vs Physical Custody

In New Jersey, there are two main types of custody—and “full” is not one of them: legal (sole or joint) and physical (sole or joint) custody. Below, we’ll go over the specifics of each type.

Joint and Sole Legal Custody

Joint legal custody shared by two parents allows them to have decision-making power and input over a child’s health, safety, education, and welfare. A legal custodian is entitled to health and educational information for the child.

It is, however, possible for a parent to have joint legal custody but not be involved in the child’s life in a significant way. In fact, it is very rare in New Jersey for one parent to have sole legal custody, where one parent would have sole decision-making power over the child’s health, education, and welfare to the exclusion of the other parent. 

Joint and Sole Physical Custody

Physical custody, as opposed to legal custody, is the amount of time a child actually spends with a parent. Joint physical custody typically refers to a 50/50 arrangement (also known as shared physical custody) or a significant amount of parenting time.

Sole physical custody usually means that the non-custodial parent has either no parenting time, or very limited parenting time.

Legal Custody
Consulting about custody

Contact Our Attorneys to Discuss Custody  

Determining custody over children during a divorce can be the most difficult and emotional issue. Rigden Lieberman is here to help. Contact us today.

By Alexandra “Lexie” Rigden

Alexandra “Lexie” Rigden understands that family law clients face unique challenges mentally, emotionally, and financially. Rigden, Lieberman & Mignogna, P.A. handles all stages of family law litigation, including trials, emergency court motions, as well as pre and post judgment applications. Every case is different, and Lexie Rigden & Ronald G. Lieberman will work to achieve the best outcome for clients whether it involves litigation or settlement. Request a consultation to discuss your case further.

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8000 Sagemore Drive Suite 8202
Marlton, NJ 08053

(856) 890-9400

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Anonymous "J"
Do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra
Alexandra came as a recommendation from an attorney friend and she was spot on. Alexandra kept me informed through every step of the process during such a difficult time in my life. She explained things in detail and always had my best interest in mind, even when I may not have realized it. As my title says, do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra.
September 7, 2022
Anonymous "J"
Do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra
Alexandra came as a recommendation from an attorney friend and she was spot on. Alexandra kept me informed through every step of the process during such a difficult time in my life. She explained things in detail and always had my best interest in mind, even when I may not have realized it. As my title says, do yourself a favor and hire Alexandra.
September 7, 2022

Anonymous "J"
Anonymous "J"
Gillian
Divorce & Restraining Order
Lexie has been my attorney since 2018. I retained her when I filed for divorce and again when I needed to obtain a restraining order. She is the best of the best. She is professional, honest, and thorough. I would highly recommend her.
February 15, 2022
Gillian
Divorce & Restraining Order
Lexie has been my attorney since 2018. I retained her when I filed for divorce and again when I needed to obtain a restraining order. She is the best of the best. She is professional, honest, and thorough. I would highly recommend her.
February 15, 2022

Gillian
Gillian
Ryan D.
True 5 star Lawyer
Alexandra is by far the best lawyer I retained. She did not waste anytime with me or try and drag out the situation for more money. Straight and to the point. Alexandra knows the facts that count for your case and is prepared and ready to fight every inch for you. She also is passionate and listens to you in completely so she can better understand what you are going through. I absolutely recommend Alexandra Kardon Rigden for family law or a DV case.
May 5, 2022
Ryan D.
True 5 star Lawyer
Alexandra is by far the best lawyer I retained. She did not waste anytime with me or try and drag out the situation for more money. Straight and to the point. Alexandra knows the facts that count for your case and is prepared and ready to fight every inch for you. She also is passionate and listens to you in completely so she can better understand what you are going through. I absolutely recommend Alexandra Kardon Rigden for family law or a DV case.
May 5, 2022

Ryan D.
Ryan D.

 (856) 890-9400

8000 Sagemore Drive Suite 8202
Marlton, NJ 08053