Chapter 1. Definitions of California Family Law Code >> Division 8. >> Part 1. >> Chapter 1.

Unless the provision or context otherwise requires, the definitions in this chapter govern the construction of this division.

"Joint custody" means joint physical custody and joint legal custody.

"Joint legal custody" means that both parents shall share the right and the responsibility to make the decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child.

"Joint physical custody" means that each of the parents shall have significant periods of physical custody. Joint physical custody shall be shared by the parents in such a way so as to assure a child of frequent and continuing contact with both parents, subject to Sections 3011 and 3020.

"Sole legal custody" means that one parent shall have the right and the responsibility to make the decisions relating to the health, education, and welfare of a child.

"Sole physical custody" means that a child shall reside with and be under the supervision of one parent, subject to the power of the court to order visitation.