What is the difference between joint legal custody and joint physical custody?

Joint legal custody and joint physical custody are both arrangements where both parents share parenting rights and responsibilities. However, there are important differences between the two. Joint legal custody grants both parents equal rights to make decisions about the upbringing and care of their children, such as education and health decisions. In joint legal custody, both parents must agree on decisions about the welfare of the children. Joint physical custody allows both parents to share physical custody and residence of the children. This means that the children will spend an equal amount of time living with each parent. In Georgia, if the court orders joint physical custody, they must enter an order stating where the child will live and how much time they will spend with each parent. This is known as a parenting plan. The court will consider the best interests of the child when deciding which parent the child should live with. In some cases, the court may also order an alternating-week parenting plan. This involves the child living with one parent for one week and the other parent for the next. This can help the child maintain a regular schedule. Overall, joint legal custody gives both parents equal decision-making rights, while joint physical custody allows for shared physical custody. Both joint legal and joint physical custody arrangements require the approval of the court and the development of a parenting plan.

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What is the difference between joint legal custody and joint physical custody?

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