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What is "joint custody"?

Joint custody means that both parents have equal rights in making decisions about such matters as the child's religious upbringing, education, and similar decisions. If the parents cannot agree, then the judge will make the decision on whether joint custody is a viable option.

What is "joint physical custody"?

"Joint physical custody" means that the child will live with each parent approximately the same amount of time.

"Visitation" rights

Normally, the judge will give the non-custodial parent "visitation rights", which allow the parent to see the child at specific times and take the child to his or her home for certain periods of time.

Many states allow judges to grant visitation rights to grandparents and (sometimes) stepparents.

What if my ex-spouse refuses to let me see my child?

If the custody order provides for visitation rights, and your ex-spouse will not let you see your child, you may ask the judge for an order holding your ex-spouse in contempt of court - which could result in a jail sentence if the refusal continues.

Visitation and child support after a divorce

If your ex-spouse refuses to let you see your child, can you stop paying child support? No. You must continue to pay the court awarded child support. In some states, you may have a civil lawsuit for money damages against your ex-spouse for loss of visitation rights. If you have questions about joint custody, contact a divorce attorney in your area.