California family law recognizes several types of child custody. Understanding legal custody, physical custody, sole custody, and joint custody is essential for any custody proceeding.
Legal Custody in California
Legal custody refers to decision-making authority for a child's health, education, and welfare. Joint legal custody — the most common California arrangement — means both parents share this authority. Sole legal custody gives one parent exclusive decision-making rights, typically ordered when the other parent has a history of domestic violence or is completely absent.
Physical Custody in California
Physical custody refers to where the child lives. Joint physical custody means the child lives with both parents for significant periods at any timeshare — 50/50, 60/40, or 70/30. Sole physical custody means the child lives primarily with one parent, with the other parent receiving visitation. Courts may order joint legal custody while granting primary physical custody to one parent — a common arrangement that balances decision-making equality with schedule practicality. Furubotten Law, APC handles all types of custody proceedings throughout Orange County and Riverside County. Call (714) 795-3862 for a complimentary case evaluation.