When Can You Seek Sole Custody?

Sharing valuable time with your child is one of the hardest parts about a divorce, but it’s legally required in most cases. Unfortunately, you might feel uncomfortable leaving your child with your ex. The rationale for your concerns may be enough to warrant seeking out sole custody. If you’re wondering when you can seek sole custody, we discuss your options in the guide below.

You’re aware of your ex’s unhealthy lifestyle

Just like you, your ex must be responsible––especially when caring for a child. Several types of lifestyles can hurt your ex’s chances of having shared custody. Unfortunately, addiction runs rampant in the lives of many people, and if you know your ex struggles with drug or alcohol abuse, you have every right to seek sole custody. Furthermore, if your ex has a history of physically abusing others, you shouldn’t have to leave your child with them.

Your ex doesn’t have a stable income or home

The court determines the appropriate type of custody based on one overwhelming question––where will the child have the best quality of life? One of the most important factors of quality of life is shelter. If your ex frequently moves or gets evicted or simply lives in a questionable home, seeking sole custody may be in the child’s best interests. Additionally, if your ex can’t hold down a job or has an unstable income, it could directly affect your child’s quality of life. Your child deserves the highest quality of life possible, just like you––don’t let your ex diminish that.