Legal Custody Is Not the Same as Parenting Time
Distinguish decision-making authority from physical parenting time when reading or explaining custody orders.
A custody order answers two questions: who decides, and where is the child. Decision Authority Legal custody provisions tell parents who may make major decisions and how consultation works. They may require joint consent, allow either parent to make routine decisions during their time, or give one parent tie-breaking authority. Care Calendar Parenting time provisions tell everyone where the child is supposed to be. A strong calendar includes regular weeks, holidays, school breaks, exchange times, locations, transportation, and what happens when school is closed. The Drafting Trap Do not use custody as a shorthand for everything. If a client says…
Sign up free — one personalized lesson every day, matched to your role and goals.
Already have an account? Sign in