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

Joint legal custody and joint physical custody are two different types of custodial arrangements available to grandparents in Washington. Joint legal custody is a type of legal arrangement, where both parents and the grandparents all have legal rights and responsibilities regarding the upbringing and welfare of the child. Under this type of arrangement, all parties can have input on the child’s beliefs, education, and religious upbringing. All parties must work together to come to decisions on any matters related to the child. Joint physical custody is a type of custodial arrangement where both parents and the grandparents all have physical responsibility for the care and upbringing of the child. Under this type of arrangement, the child can move between households of the parents and grandparents, splitting their time between them. This type of arrangement allows the child to be involved in the lives of both family units. The difference between joint legal custody and joint physical custody is that the former covers matters of legal rights and responsibilities, while the latter covers physical care and upbringing. Together, they form a comprehensive system of custody and guardianship that can benefit both parents, grandparents, and children in Washington.

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