What is the difference between custodial parent and non-custodial?

Answer by  patti (29325)

Kids live with the "custodial parent." The non-custodial parent then has visitation, including overnights and/or weekends, alternating holidays, summer trips, etc. But the primary residence is with the custodial parent.

Answer by  kjgoulet (460)

The custodial parent is the parent that the child resides with more that 50% of the time. The non-custodial parent is the one that has the visitation times.

Answer by  cb31 (226)

A custodial parent is the parent with whom a child typically resides. They also have the majority of input of what the child is allowed to do. A non custodial parent typically does not reside with the child, but may have visitation rights. Also, depending on the arrangemet, the child might live with the non custodial parent for short periods.

Answer by  Erynn (1651)

Non-custodial parents have no say in what happens to their children. Custodial parents have the children live with them and make all legal and practical decisions usually decided by both.