As per Lawkidunya, In Pakistan, the duration of permanent child custody is not strictly defined and can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. However, here are some general guidelines:
Factors Influencing Duration
1. Age of the Child: The duration of custody can depend on the age of the child. For example, custody of a young child (under 7 years) may be granted to the mother, while custody of an older child may be granted to the father.
2. Circumstances of the Parents: The court may consider the circumstances of the parents, such as their financial stability, character, and ability to provide a stable environment for the child.
3. Wishes of the Child: In some cases, the court may consider the wishes of the child, especially if they are old enough to express a preference.
Types of Permanent Child Custody
1. Sole Custody: One parent is granted exclusive custody of the child, with the other parent having limited or no rights.
2. Joint Custody: Both parents share custody of the child, with joint decision-making authority.
3. Shared Custody: Both parents share physical custody of the child, with each parent having significant periods of physical custody.
Duration of Permanent Child Custody
1. Until Majority: Permanent child custody typically lasts until the child reaches the age of majority (18 years).
2. Until Marriage: In some cases, custody may last until the child gets married.
3. Reviewable: The court may review and modify the custody arrangement at any time if circumstances change.
Important Considerations
1. Best Interests of the Child: The court’s primary consideration is the best interests of the child.
2. Flexibility: The court may grant flexible custody arrangements, such as joint custody or shared custody, to accommodate the needs of the child and parents.
3. Review and Modification: The court may review and modify the custody arrangement at any time if circumstances change.