Hi. Going through a long 7 year divorce. Court just appointed me an attorney to help finish with the custody issue first before finances. My soon to be X husband has a history (documented in court as well) of cocaine abuse. We have an extremely contention situation. 3 kids involved. My oldest hasn't spoken to him in 2 years. The younger 2 see him once in a blue moon. He calls a few times a week that's about it. He doesn't pay child support or alimony or any of the carrying costs. He doesn't support them or see them much. We don't even think he's living here. I want to fight for sole custody. Trying to figure out if this is equal to joint custody with my final decision making? Or is it important for me to stick with sole custody no matter what.

I've been hearing different things from attorneys and courts and I'm not sure anyone is being truly honest with me. Thank you if anyone has some good advice.

Equal would mean he has partial-weekends, split holidays. You want full, Solé custody. If he is granted any visitation you request supervised. Go for that child support too.

... I want to fight for sole custody. Trying to figure out if this is equal to joint custody with my final decision making?? Or is it important for me to stick with sole custody no matter what. ....

If the court appointed you an attorney, that would be the person to ask.

And it would depend upon which state you are in.