What is joint legal custody you ask?

I am often asked what the differences are between joint legal custody and sole custody.  In New Jersey it seems we have lots and lots of different kinds of custody, and the kinds of arrangements are as varied as I suppose they need to be.  The best definition of joint legal custody I’ve found to date, appeared in the case of Emma v. Evans, an Appellate Division case that stands for the proposition that a custodial parent cannot without the OK from the non-custodial parent (or the parent of alternate residence, as we call it now) change the last name of the children.  You can read about Emma v. Evans on my website here:  http://www.helenglassesq.com/new-jersey-divorce-news.htm

But I digress. . .

The case quoted Supreme Court and other Appellate Division cases in explaining joint legal custody as “A stipulation to joint legal custody constitutes the parties’ agreement to share “authority and responsibility for making ‘major’ decisions” regarding the welfare of the children, calling upon “both parents to remain decision-makers in the lives of their children.   . . . legal custody [is a] shared obligation, calling upon the parents to first attempt to “agree, communicate and cooperate . . . notwithstanding animosity of acrimony they may harbor towards each other.”  [I have left out the citations for the sake of brevity.]

Simple words, but words to live by for the best interest of your most important asset!

If you have family law issues, alimony disputes, or any post judgement modification, in Bergen or Passaic County, contact me today at (201) 343-0287, or email me at Helen@HelenGlassEsq.com  My office accepts credit cards, and offers personalized, attentive and compassionate service.  Please see my website for comprehensive information at http://www.HelenGlassEsq.com