What is the difference between legal and physical custody?

My kids’ Dad and I are splitting up and we have 2 kids. We are trying to reach an agreement on custody but have some questions about legal versus physical custody. I have no problem sharing time with the kids but I don’t want to have to get his permission for everything relating to them. He is difficult to deal with and is very religious – he wants our kids enrolled in catholic schools and for them to be confirmed in the church. I want to have the final say because I don’t trust his judgment on certain issues. I’m told legal custody is the thing that controls decision-making in custody cases. What is the difference between legal and physical custody and can we have an arrangement that allows each of us to have the kids an equal amount but gives me final decision making power?

Practice areas

Child Custody Family

Boston, MA

Last updated: Mar 15, 2021 - 08:26 AM

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