Custody of children is now referred to as legal and physical rights and responsibilities. Complex legal principals determine who exercises "primary" legal rights and responsibilities, and how much time you get to spend with your child. The Vermont Family Court will be most concerned with what is "in the best interest of the child." This means that in order to maintain or acquire legal or physical rights and responsibilities, specific strategies must be employed in preparation of a final hearing. Although child custody disputes are often resolved by written agreement between the parties, you need an attorney to ensure that any written agreement accurately implements the intent of the parties, and to fully litigate your case if necessary.