SHARED CUSTODY

A decision made by the court, usually in divorce actions, that the parents will share custody of a minor child.

Shared physical custody is a division of time the child physically spends with either parent.  Shared physical custody does not necessarily mean exact division of time with each parent, but can be based on reasonable time with each parent.  This division of time can occur either upon an agreement of the parents and specifically spelled out or based on stated guidelines and shared payment of costs of raising the child. 

Shared legal custody, in essence, means that both parents can make decisions for and on behalf of the child, including medical treatment.  Ideally, where possible, both parents should consult one another on any decisions being made on behalf of the child.

Upon the death or disability of either parent, legal custody will go to the remaining parent and will give the active parent the sole ability to act for the child without further order of the court.

Shared custody is also commonly known as joint custody.