What does custody mean?

Raising and caring for the child

The law states that you must take care of the physical and mental well-being of your child. And that you must assist it to develop its personality. You cannot mentally or physically abuse or neglect the child. And you must promote the bond of the child with the other parent.

Paying for upbringing and care

Parents with custody must pay for the care and upbringing of children. This child maintenance obligation stops once the children have reached the age of 21. Even if parents divorce or their registered partnership ends, they must agree on a financial settlement. This is called child support.

Official acts on behalf of the child

Children under the age of 18 are usually not allowed to perform official acts independently unless the court has declared them of age. For example, they are not allowed to sign or conduct court proceedings. If parents have custody over a child, they are allowed to perform official acts on behalf of the child. For example:

• Enrolling the child at a school.
• Applying for a passport for the child.
• Giving consent for a medical treatment.

Liable for damages

By law, parents or guardians are liable for what their children do. Parents must then, for example, pay the costs if their children cause damage. In most cases, this applies until a child has reached the age of 14. With a 14- and 15-year-old child, both the parent and the child themselves can be held liable. From the age of 16, a child is always personally liable.

Administering assets of child

If you have custody then you must manage the assets of a child. If you do not do this properly then you will be liable for damages that may arise as a result. For example, if the child has inherited money and a parent uses this money for themselves.