Custody decisions can shape your child’s future. In Georgia, understanding the differences between physical and legal custody is crucial. This knowledge helps you navigate custody arrangements confidently.
Physical custody
Physical custody refers to where your child lives. When you have physical custody, your child resides with you most of the time. This includes providing daily care, such as meals, homework, and bedtime routines.
Physical child custody can be sole or joint, depending on what works best for the family. Sole physical custody means the child lives with one parent, while joint physical custody means the child spends significant time with both parents.
Legal custody
Legal custody involves making important decisions for your child. This includes choices about education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Legal custody can also be sole or joint. Sole legal custody means one parent has the authority to make these decisions alone. Joint legal custody means both parents share this responsibility, requiring cooperation and communication.
Joint custody
Joint custody combines both physical and legal aspects. In Georgia, joint custody means parents share both the physical living arrangements and the decision-making responsibilities. This arrangement requires parents to collaborate on daily and long-term matters.
It often involves a schedule where the child splits time between both parents’ homes. Joint legal custody requires parents to discuss and agree on significant decisions affecting their child’s well-being.
Moving forward with understanding
Understanding physical and legal custody helps you make informed decisions for your child’s future. Effective co-parenting and clear communication can lead to a stable, supportive environment for your child.