Document background
The Sole Custody Agreement is a crucial legal document used in New Zealand when one parent or guardian is to be granted exclusive custody rights over a child. This agreement becomes necessary in situations where sole custody is deemed in the child's best interests, such as cases involving domestic violence, severe conflict between parents, or when one parent is unable or unwilling to participate in the child's care. The document, governed by the Care of Children Act 2004 and other relevant New Zealand legislation, provides comprehensive details about custody arrangements, decision-making authority, living arrangements, and provisions for the child's welfare. It typically includes specific protocols for medical care, education, travel, and any permitted contact with the non-custodial parent. The agreement must align with New Zealand family law principles, particularly the paramount consideration of the child's best interests, and can be modified through proper legal channels if circumstances change significantly.
