Understanding the terminology for child custody matters can help parents better assert themselves. They need to understand the law and standard procedure in family court to become effective advocates for their children.
Most parents share custody. The parents may agree to share their responsibilities with one another, or the courts may determine that a joint arrangement is in the children’s best interests. Parents typically share parenting time or physical custody. They also usually share legal custody in most cases. What does that mean for co-parents?
Parents share decision-making power
Legal custody is essentially the legal authority associated with parentage. Parents can make decisions about a child’s medical care. They can enroll their children in school. Generally speaking, parents who share legal custody have to reach agreements on critical matters regarding their children.
Shared legal custody generally also means that each parent has authority during their own time with the children. For example, the parent who currently has responsibility for the children can decide whether they should attend a sleepover with a friend, when they go to bed and if a doctor’s visit is necessary when they have cold symptoms.
Parents may need to have systems in place for communicating with one another and possibly even rules for navigating a dispute about major decisions. When disagreements about critical decisions arise, they may need to work together to discuss what is best for their children. A plan can make cooperation more achievable, despite the disagreement.
Preparing for the realities of shared child custody, including sharing legal authority, can help parents work cooperatively. Those who understand what to expect are less likely to end up unintentionally violating custody orders or fighting unnecessarily with their co-parents.