A custodial parent is a term commonly used in family law to refer to the parent with whom a child primarily resides after a divorce or separation. This parent is typically granted physical custody of the child and is responsible for the day-to-day care, upbringing, and decision-making on behalf of the child. The custodial parent is the one with whom the child lives most of the time, while the noncustodial parent, often the other biological parent, may be granted visitation rights or parenting time. Custodial arrangements can vary and may be determined through court orders or mutual agreements between the parents, depending on the legal jurisdiction and specific circumstances of the family.
A non-custodial parent refers to a parent who does not have primary physical custody of their child or children following a divorce or separation. In legal terms, custodial arrangements determine where the child resides primarily and which parent is responsible for making important decisions regarding the child's upbringing. The non-custodial parent, while not having primary physical custody, typically retains certain visitation rights and may be required to contribute financially to the child's well-being through child support payments. The custodial parent is the one with whom the child primarily resides and who has the primary responsibility for the child's day-to-day care. The terms and conditions of custody arrangements can vary based on legal agreements, court decisions, and the specific circumstances of each case.