Joint Custody

/ˈdʒɔɪnt ˈkʌstədi/

Definitions

  1. (n.) Legal arrangement where two or more persons share legal and/or physical custody of a child following separation or divorce.
    The court awarded joint custody to both parents to ensure shared decision-making for the child's welfare.
  2. (n.) A form of custody involving shared rights and responsibilities for care and upbringing of a minor.
    Under joint custody, both parents must agree on major decisions affecting the child.

Forms

  • joint custody

Commentary

Joint custody can be subdivided into joint legal custody and joint physical custody; drafters should specify which form is intended for clarity.

This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.

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