Legal decision-making vs. parenting time
In Arizona, “legal custody” is called legal decision-making. It addresses who makes major decisions about education, medical care, and similar issues. Parenting time (formerly physical custody) is the schedule of when children are with each parent, including holidays and vacations.
Arizona favors joint legal decision-making and frequent, meaningful parenting time for both parents when appropriate—but every case turns on its facts.
How Arsenal Law helps parents
- Developing parenting plans that courts can enforce
- Litigating contested decision-making disputes
- Relocation (move-away) cases
- Modifications after a substantial change in circumstances
- Enforcement when the other parent violates orders
- Paternity cases establishing rights for unmarried parents
Start with a clear plan
Early mistakes in custody cases can follow a family for years. We help you understand what the court will focus on, what evidence matters, and how to pursue a workable parenting arrangement.