Connecticut family-law guide · reviewed August 22, 2026
Connecticut Custody & Parenting Time
Current, source-linked Connecticut terminology and rules without imported out-of-state formulas.
Legal information, not legal advice. Connecticut law and local practice can change. Verify forms, fees, filing methods, service, and hearing procedure with the clerk of the Superior Court receiving your case.
Connecticut terminology
Legal custody
The right to make major decisions (education, health, religion).
Physical custody
Where the child lives.
Visitation / parenting time
The time each parent spends with the child.
Best interests
The standard; decided on 17 factors in CGS 46b-56(c).
Core rules
- Connecticut uses 'custody' (legal/physical, sole/joint) plus 'visitation' / 'parenting time'
- The court considers the child's best interests using 17 factors (CGS 46b-56(c))
- Joint custody is presumed in the child's best interest (CGS 46b-56a)
- Joint custody means legal custody to both parents + shared physical custody
- No preference to mother over father (or vice versa) based on gender
- A parenting education program is required for parents with minor children (CGS 46b-69b)
- Cases are heard in Superior Court (Family Division)
Support and modification cautions
Connecticut uses the Income Shares model (CGS 46b-215a). Custody modification needs a material change in circumstances plus best interests; child support needs a substantial change (a 15% deviation is presumed substantial).
Official sources reviewed August 22, 2026
- CGS 46b-56 — custody / best interests
- Connecticut Child Support Guidelines
- Connecticut Judicial Branch — self-help
Always confirm current local forms, fees, and filing procedure with the clerk of the Connecticut Superior Court handling your case.