The term “joint custody” is vague and can mean either legal or physical custody.

Joint legal custody means that each parent has equal rights to make decisions in the best interest of the child. Sole legal custody means one parent has the primary power to make decisions affecting the health, education, and welfare of the child. Sole legal custody does not completely prevent the other parent from being involved in making decisions, but it does mean the sole custodian has the ultimate decision-making power.

Joint legal custody is the preferred arrangement in Kansas.