In Iowa there are two types of “custody”: legal custody and physical care.  Legal custody refers to a parent’s rights and responsibilities toward the child in matters such as decisions affecting the child’s legal status, medical care, education, extracurricular activities, and religious instruction.  Physical care, on the other hand, refers to the right and responsibility to maintain the principal home of the minor child and provide for the routine care of the child.

Iowa law provides that, except in unusual circumstances, the best interest of the child requires the opportunity for maximum continuous physical and emotional contact with both parents.  Therefore, where appropriate, visitation rights are liberally granted to a noncustodial parent in order to ensure that he or she will have a chance to become involved in all aspects of their child’s life.

Decisions regarding custody are often the most contested issues in a divorce.  We understand how important a parent’s relationship with their child is and will work to achieve the best outcome for you and your child.