What is the significance of co-legal residency for custody? Can I enroll my child in school ?

Question

My son is 2 years old, can I enroll him in school when he is of kindergarten age?

Answer 1

It really depends on what state you reside in. Generally, it means that you and your ex share joing legal custody of your child. That being said, the two of you have an equal right to make "legal" decisions regarding the health and education of the child. However, most parenting plans that set forth the terms of custody and visitation list one parent's address as the primary residence for the child and whomever's address is listed, will decide on the school the child will attend. Obviously, some discussions will need to occur if the two of you live in separate school districts or if one of you want the child to attend a private school. Some plans even go so far as to say that the two of you agree to discuss what is in the best interest for the child, but in the end, the parent who has primary physical custody gets the ultimate decision. Make sure your plan addresses this because if it does not, you'll have to go to court to have the judge clarify it which will cost time and money.

Try to get along with your ex. It is much better for your child if the two of you can work together. Before fighting, decide whether you are arguing because it's what you think is best for your child or whether you want to disagree with your ex. Good luck to you.

Answer 2

I would talk to your ex. come to an agreement of where the child will be schooled. Keep the communication open, as you already know im sure. This way if you do enroll theres no hard feelings about that you didnt say something first! If you cant talk to them, thats what your lawyer is for :(

Good luck!

Answer 3

So both parties have an equal say in raising the child. One parent is still the residential custodial parent who has final say or responsibility but other parent can voice their opinion. Yes, you can enroll him mostly on the grounds of convenience if youre residential parent

Answer 4

I went to Noelani Elementary 7 times to register my 5 year old before I got it ":right"- in Honolulu. I sobbed- real tears and screamed LOUDLY- "Why Are you doing this to me? Is there really room for my little girl in your kindertgarte or NOT? Is this really a school for rich kids or something? just TELL me and I'll go away -and I will!! - but I'm exhausted trying here..." My kids file was suddenly complete. They handed me HER orientation packet. She went there 5 years. What's wrong there: You exhaust people without ever serving their needs.