In Michigan there are two types of custody, legal and physical custody. Legal custody is the ability to make major decisions for your child(ren) such as education, religion and healthcare. Physical custody is having your child(ren) physically with you and making day-to-day decision while you have your child(ren).
When you hear that someone has sole or joint custody, that is usually a reference to legal custody. If someone has sole legal custody they will generally also have sole physical custody. On the other hand, parents can share joint legal custody and one parent may have sole or primary physical custody.
If you are facing a custody determination we can help. The domestic law attorneys at Cunningham Dalman have many years helping families throughout West Michigan in regards to custody and parenting time.
