Sole custody refers to a legal arrangement in which one parent has the exclusive right to make decisions regarding a child's upbringing, including education, healthcare, and religious practices. This type of custody is often granted when it is deemed to be in the best interest of the child, particularly in cases involving parental conflict or concerns about a parent's ability to provide a stable environment. In sole custody situations, the other parent may still have visitation rights, but they do not have a say in major decisions affecting the child's life. Courts typically consider various factors, such as the child's needs and the parents' circumstances, before awarding sole custody to ensure the child's well-being is prioritized.