Nevada Child Custody Laws

Parents must agree on child custody when they separate. These arrangements include how they plan to:

• Make major decisions
• Share time with their child

If parents can't agree, courts will decide the best course of action based on state child custody laws.

State child custody laws are fairly similar from one state to the next. All states (except Massachusetts) have adopted the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA).

Nevada child custody laws recognize the option of joint custody. They also allow visitation by grandparents and consider the child's own wishes before ordering custody terms.

This article offers a brief overview of child custody laws in Nevada.

Types of Custody in Nevada

In Nevada, custody arrangements for minor children are physical custody and legal custody.

Physical custody is where the child lives and the daily care by the custodial parent. This can be:

• Sole custody, where one parent has primary physical custody of the child.
• Joint physical custody, where the child spends significant time with both parents. The noncustodial parent, in this case, still maintains substantial parenting time.

Legal custody involves decision-making rights on the child's upbringing. This includes education, health care, and religious practices. It can be sole custody for one parent or joint legal custody, allowing both parents to share in these important decisions.

Nevada courts prioritize the best interests of the child, considering factors such as the child's needs, wishes, physical and emotional health, and each parent's ability to provide a stable and supportive environment when determining custody.

Child Custody Statutes in Nevada: Chart

Learn more about Nevada child custody laws in the chart below. You can also visit FindLaw's Child Custody section for more introductory information on this topic.

Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, it's best to consult with a local child custody attorney to learn how these regulations apply to your unique circumstances.

Nevada Custody Hearings

A custody hearing is a legal proceeding where a district court judge determines a child's most suitable custody arrangement. They focus on the child's best interests under Nevada law.

During a custody dispute, both parents present evidence and arguments regarding their ability to care for the child.

The court considers factors such as:

• Each parent's living situation
• Financial stability
• The child's wishes
• Any history of domestic violence or neglect

The judge reviews proposed parenting plans and evaluates the parents' willingness to cooperate and meet the child's emotional needs.

The resulting custody order, or court order, may include:

• Joint physical custody
• Joint legal custody
• Sole custody arrangements
• A visitation schedule outlined in a visitation order

This process aims to create a fair custody agreement that protects parental rights and ensures the child maintains a meaningful relationship with both parents.

In a Nevada child custody case, the final custody order seeks to balance custody rights and the best interests of the child.

Get Legal Help With Child Custody

If you and your child's other parent are separating, you might not agree on how the child custody arrangement should look. Child custody matters can be difficult to sort out. It may be helpful to get legal advice from an attorney. Contact a Nevada family law attorney.