Legal Question in Family Law in Pennsylvania

Child Custody and Mental Illness

I am separated from my spouse and am working on an agreement. He has Bipolar Disorder and had a major manic episode in the summer of 2006. He has been granted social security disability for Mental Illness. What are my chances of getting Sole Custody? He has visitation 2 nights (for dinner) during the week and 1 overnight (at his parents, where he lives) from Sat-Sun, on alternating weekends. I would like to come to a fair agreement- he wants more visitation- but I want to make sure my 3 year old is safe and secure.

any resources or past cases that are similar would be most welcome. I would love advice and any past experiences that are similar to go on.

thank you-


Asked on 12/09/07, 9:27 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
John Davidson Law Office of John A. Davidson

Re: Child Custody and Mental Illness

First, there are to parts to custody. Legal Custody which has to do with the right to information about the child and the right to make decisions on the child's upbringing. The second part is physical custody. For physical custody it can be shared evenly though more often one parent is given primary physical custody and the other is given periods of partial custody. The right to come and take the child periodically for definite periods of time.

As to you getting sole custody? There are not sufficient facts to say one way or another. First, you offer no facts as to your situation. Second, we don't know if dad is taking his medication and is under control or not.

If you have any questions feel free to call me. The initial consultation is free.

{John}

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Answered on 12/10/07, 8:34 am


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