🔍 Understanding New Jersey's Child Custody Laws

Title 9 - Children--Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts

Section 9:2-4 - Custody of child; rights of both parents considered.

New Jersey supports maintaining regular contact between children and both parents after separation or divorce. Both parents should be actively involved in raising their child.

a. Custody Options:

• Joint Custody: Shared decision-making and living arrangements.

• Sole Custody: One parent has full custody; the other has visitation rights.

• Custom Arrangements: Tailored to the child's specific needs.

b. Court Considerations:

• Cooperation and Communication

• Willingness and History of Parenting Time

• Child’s Relationships and Safety

• Child’s Preferences and Home Stability

c. Representation: The court can appoint a guardian ad litem or attorney to represent the child’s interests.

d. Agreed Arrangements: The court will usually accept agreed-upon plans unless they aren't in the child’s best interests.

e. Disputed Cases: Each parent must submit a custody plan if they cannot agree.

f. Documentation: The court will detail reasons for any custody decisions not mutually agreed upon.

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