When parents divorce or separate, a formal custody order needs to be entered to determine which parents have legal custody and which parents have physical custody. Legal custody determines which parent(s) can make decisions about a child’s health, education, and welfare, including where the child attends school and which doctors the child sees when he [...]

Child custody determinations stemming from divorce cases in Mississippi are ultimately decided by the presiding judge in the case. The judge will seek to protect the best interests of the child. Under Mississippi law, the best interests of the child are presumed to include having the child maintain sufficient contact with each parent that facilitates [...]

Special issues and circumstances related to child custody can arise at times after the custody arrangement has been put into effect after a divorce. When custody is initially agreed to and established, it is for the most part determined according to the children’s best interests. However, life circumstances for the mother, father, and children sometimes [...]