Define: Primary Domiciliary Parent

A primary domiciliary parent is the parent with whom a child primarily resides and who has the primary responsibility for the child’s care and upbringing.

The primary domiciliary parent is typically determined based on the best interests of the child. Factors such as the parent’s ability to provide for the child’s needs, the child’s relationship with each parent, and the child’s preference (if old enough) may be considered.

Yes, the primary domiciliary parent can be changed if there is a significant change in circumstances that warrants a modification of the custody arrangement. This may require filing a petition with the court and presenting evidence to support the requested change.

The primary domiciliary parent has the right to make day-to-day decisions regarding the child’s care, including decisions about education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. They also have the right to receive child support from the noncustodial parent.

Yes, the noncustodial parent typically has visitation rights unless there are specific reasons, such as concerns for the child’s safety, that would warrant supervised or restricted visitation. The visitation schedule is usually determined by the court or agreed upon by the parents.

In most cases, the primary domiciliary parent cannot move with the child without obtaining permission from the court or the noncustodial parent. The court will consider factors such as the reason for the move, the impact on the child’s relationship with the noncustodial parent, and the child’s best interests.

No, the primary domiciliary parent generally cannot deny visitation to the noncustodial parent unless there are valid concerns for the child’s safety. If there are issues with visitation, the noncustodial parent may need to seek legal remedies to enforce their visitation rights.

In most cases, the primary domiciliary parent cannot unilaterally change the child’s last name without the consent of the other parent or approval from the court. The court will consider the child’s best interests and the reasons for the name change request.

Relocating to another state with the child usually requires permission from the court or the noncustodial parent. The court will consider factors such as the reason for the relocation, the impact on the child’s relationship with the noncustodial parent, and the child’s best interests.

Child support is typically paid by the noncustodial parent to the primary domiciliary parent to help cover the child’s expenses. However, in certain circumstances, such as when the primary domiciliary parent has a significantly higher income, the court may order them to pay child support to the noncustodial parent.