Most parents get joint custody in California, which means they share the legal responsibilities of caring for their children. It also means that they share a fair amount of time with their kids.

But why do most parents get joint custody in CA, and what, exactly, does that mean?

Why Most Parents Get Joint Custody in California

Shared parenting is typically regarded as best for children. Studies have shown that kids who spend ample time with both parents, and when that time is quality time, kids become more resilient and have stronger relationship bonds with their families.

Most divorcing parents are able to work out their own child custody agreements. In fact, your Stockton divorce lawyer and the judge involved in your case will probably recommend that you do the same. After all, you know your children best – and you know what will work for them, what they need, and what you’re able to manage.

Parents Sharing Joint Legal Custody in California

The term legal custody refers to a parent’s responsibility and right to make decisions about a child’s education, health and day-to-day welfare. Some of the decisions a parent who has legal custody can make involve:

• Extracurricular activities. If a parent has legal custody, he or she can decide what extracurricular activities their children will participate in.
• Medical treatment and dental treatment. Parents who have legal custody of their children are able to decide where and when the child receives medical or dental treatment.
• Religious activities. If a parent has legal custody, he or she can decide what type of religious upbringing their children will have, and where the children attend church.
• Education. Parents with legal custody can decide which schools their children will attend.

A lot of parents share joint legal custody in California. When two parents share this type of custody, they both must work together to make these important decisions; if there’s a disagreement, they may end up in court to settle it.

Parents Sharing Joint Physical Custody in California

The term physical custody refers to a parent sharing a home with a child. When parents share joint physical custody, which doesn’t have to be 50-50, the parents each share a home with the child rather than the child living with one parent and simply visiting another.

Courts in California recognize how important it is for a child to have both parents in his or her life. Sole custody – where only one parent has legal, physical or both types of custody – is becoming increasingly rare. It’s often only used when one parent has harmed the child or has behaved in ways detrimental to the child’s well-being, but every case is different; yours might be, too.

Do You Need to Talk to a Lawyer About Joint Custody in California?

We can help you work out a custody agreement with your soon-to-be ex-spouse that works for your whole family – one that puts your kids’ needs and well-being first.

Call us at 209-910-9865 or get in touch with a Stockton divorce attorney online to schedule a consultation today. We’ll discuss your case, find out about your circumstances and start formulating a plan that gets you and your children the best possible outcome.