What is the term for a custody arrangement where both parents share decision-making and physical care of the children?

The term for a custody arrangement where both parents share decision-making and physical care of the children is "joint legal and physical custody." This arrangement allows both parents to participate in significant decisions regarding the upbringing of their children, such as education, health care, and general welfare. Additionally, it supports that the children spend time with both parents, promoting a balanced relationship and providing opportunities for emotional and physical support from both sides.

In contrast, sole custody would indicate that only one parent has the right to make decisions regarding the child and may have exclusive physical custody as well. Shared physical custody typically refers to a specific level of physical time spent between parents but does not necessarily indicate shared decision-making. Legal guardianship involves a different legal status where a person who is not a biological parent becomes responsible for a child, which differs significantly from joint custody arrangements that involve both biological or legal parents.