Custody of a child

Custody emphasises the care and protection aspect of parental duties. Custody entails both the right and obligation for the parent to determine the personal circumstances of the child, and the child has the right to custody of either or both of his parents.

Custody may be shared or in the hands of one of the parents. Parents who have children in a marriage or registered partnership have joint custody of their children.

If a child is born outside of wedlock or a registered partnership, the mother shall have sole custody.

Cooperation after divorce

Please see the SES, after the children's divorce, for collaboration, www.samvinnaeftirskilnad.is The website includes courses for parents and children, as well as specialised advice from the local authorities, e.g. on account of custody and access.