There are several different types of custody arrangements because of the difficulties in child rearing by divorced parents.

One of the most contentious facets of a divorce is custody. Parents often care more for their children than their alienated spouses. It is very important for both parents -- the custodial and the noncustodial -- to remember that each is still a parent, and that a child’s love is not divisible; he or she loves both parents.

In deciding custody, parents should remember that a child’s main concern is his or her own future; that a child suffers terribly during a divorce, even when he or she does not show it; and that any custody arrangement competent and reasonable parents can reach is better than one a judge can decide.

In disputed custody cases, the judge decides, guided by "the best interests of the child."