Both parents are responsible for caring for the child and for making big decisions that affect the life of the child. Joint custody does not necessarily mean that the child spends an equal amount of time with both parents. Courts often grant joint custody because it allows the child to have a relationship with both parents. Joint custody may be unsafe for you if your ex-partner is abusive and you cannot come into contact with him. It is important to tell your lawyer if your ex-partner is abusive.
Access allows the non-custodial parent to see the child at certain times.
The custodial parent is responsible for providing access. Access can be frequent or infrequent, regular or irregular. It may be strictly scheduled or worked out by the parents on an ongoing basis. The primary residence is where the child spends the majority of her or his time. Courts usually say where the child's residence will be.