Child Custody.
At Poppy Legal Group, we understand that questions about custody can feel overwhelming. Whether you're going through a divorce, separating from your co-parent, or addressing custody for the first time, our team is here to help you navigate the process with clarity, compassion, and a focus on what truly matters—the best interests of your child.
When Does Child Custody Come Into Play?
Child custody becomes a central issue in many family law situations, including:
Divorce or legal separation
Custody disputes between unmarried parents
Emergency situations involving a child’s safety
Guardianship or third-party caregiver cases
Whether you're at the beginning of the process or in the middle of a complex case, we’re here to help you understand your rights and responsibilities as a parent.
Understanding Legal vs. Physical Custody
In Massachusetts, custody is divided into two categories:
Legal Custody refers to the right to make major decisions about a child’s upbringing—such as education, health care, and religious practices.
Physical Custody (aka “Parenting Time”) refers to where the child lives and which parent is responsible for the child’s day-to-day care.
Both legal and physical custody can be sole (granted to one parent) or shared (divided between both parents), depending on the circumstances.
Types of Custody Arrangements
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to custody. Every family is unique, and the court will consider a range of options based on what will best support the child’s stability and growth:
Sole Legal Custody: One parent makes all major decisions for the child.
Shared Legal Custody: Both parents make decisions together.
Sole Physical Custody: The child primarily lives with one parent; the other may have parenting time or visitation.
Shared Physical Custody: The child spends significant time with both parents, though this doesn’t necessarily mean a 50/50 split.
Custody arrangements are often accompanied by a parenting plan that outlines where the child will live, how time is shared, and how transitions are handled.
How Massachusetts Courts Decide Custody
Custody decisions in Massachusetts are always based on the best interests of the child. Courts do not favor mothers over fathers or vice versa—they focus on the child's needs, safety, and sense of stability. Factors may include:
The child’s age, needs, and preferences (if mature enough)
Each parent’s ability to provide a safe and stable environment
The child’s relationship with each parent
The history of caregiving and involvement
Any evidence of abuse, neglect, or parental unfitness
In many cases, the court encourages shared legal custody, unless there is a clear reason it would not be in the child’s best interest.
Collaborative Custody Solutions
Not all custody matters need to be resolved in court. Many parents reach agreements through negotiation or mediation, which can lead to more flexible and peaceful outcomes. We support and encourage co-parenting solutions that prioritize respect, communication, and long-term stability for the child.
What If Circumstances Change?
Custody arrangements may need to be revisited as life changes. If you're seeking to change an existing custody order due to a significant shift in circumstances, you may need to pursue a modification.
How Poppy Legal Group Can Help
Custody is deeply personal, and we approach every case with a steady hand and an open heart. Whether you're seeking an initial custody arrangement or trying to navigate a disagreement, we’ll guide you through the legal process while keeping your child’s best interests at the center.
We’re here to advocate for what’s fair, what’s realistic, and what helps your family move forward.
