Custody And Visitation - Parents who separate must decide which parent their children will live with. They also must decide how they'll share their parenting responsibilities. Sometimes parents can't agree, so the judge has to make the decisions. Many parents can agree and can make a custody/visitation agreement that they give to the court. This agreement is also sometimes called a "stipulation for custody/visitation," a "parenting plan," or a "time-share plan."
The judge makes the final decision, but usually will approve an arrangement that both parents agree to.
If you can't agree on custody, a judge will have to make the decision. You'll probably have to meet with a Family Court Services mediator before the judge will make a custody order.