Types of Sole Custody as Per Pakistani Law

Types of Sole Custody as per Pakistani law:

Types of Sole Custody

1. Exclusive Sole Custody: One parent has complete control over the child’s life, including financial decisions.
2. Limited Sole Custody: One parent has authority over daily care decisions, while the other parent retains some rights.
3. Physical Sole Custody: One parent has physical custody, while the other parent retains legal custody.
4. Legal Sole Custody: One parent has sole authority to make legal decisions for the child.

Factors Considered for Sole Custody

1. Child’s age and needs
2. Parental fitness and capability
3. Child’s best interests
4. Stability and security
5. Parent-child relationship
6. Domestic violence or abuse history
7. Financial stability

Grounds for Sole Custody

1. Parental abandonment or neglect
2. Domestic violence or abuse
3. Child’s physical or emotional harm
4. Parental incapacity or illness
5. Child’s best interests

Procedure for Sole Custody

1. Petition filed in family court
2. Evidence presented (e.g., affidavits, medical reports)
3. Court hearing and decision
4. Order for sole custody granted

Rights and Responsibilities of Sole Custodian

1. Decision-making authority
2. Financial management
3. Physical care and supervision
4. Communication with non-custodial parent (limited)
5. Responsibility for child’s education and healthcare

Relevant Laws

1. Muslim Family Laws Ordinance 1961
2. Family Courts Act 1964
3. Child Marriage Restraint Act 1929
4. The Protection of Women (Prevention of Harassment) Act 2016

Reforms and Alternatives

1. Joint Custody (shared decision-making)
2. Mediation (counseling or mediation)
3. Co-Parenting Plans (shared responsibilities)
4. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms

For accurate information and updates, consult official Pakistani government sources or reputable legal experts.