Sole custody refers to a legal arrangement where one parent, known as the custodial parent, has the exclusive right to make important decisions regarding a child's upbringing. This includes choices about education, healthcare, and religious practices. The other parent, often referred to as the non-custodial parent, may have limited visitation rights but does not participate in these significant decisions.
In cases of sole custody, the custodial parent is responsible for the child's daily care and living arrangements. This arrangement can arise from various situations, such as divorce or separation, and is typically determined by a court based on the child's best interests, considering factors like stability and safety.