The term "joint custody" is commonly used to refer to shared custody or joint legal custody, which is a legal term used in family law. In this type of arrangement, both parents have equal responsibility for the well-being of their child or children.
Joint custody may be granted in cases of divorce, separation, or unmarried parents who have decided to split. It can be either physical or legal, or a combination of both.
Physical custody refers to the actual physical care and control of the child, such as where they live, what school they attend, and day-to-day care. Legal custody, on the other hand, refers to making major decisions about the child's upbringing, such as medical care, education, and religious upbringing.
In a joint custody arrangement, both parents share in the decision-making process and have equal access to the child. This type of custody is typically considered when both parents are cooperative and can work together in the best interest of the child.
However, joint custody is not always the best option for every family. In cases where there is a history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect, joint custody may not be safe or appropriate for the child.
Overall, the term "joint custody" refers to a legal arrangement where both parents share responsibility for their child's well-being. The specifics of joint custody can vary depending on the individual case and the needs and best interests of the child.