Family law
Physical custody
Where, and with which parent or parents, a child lives.[1]
In more detail
California's courts explain that physical custody, like legal custody, can be shared by both parents (joint) or held by one (sole).[1] Florida doesn't use the word custody; it sets out where the child spends time in a time-sharing schedule.[2]
Varies by state
States use different terms and presumptions for where a child lives. Find your state’s rules.
Related terms
- Legal custodyThe right and responsibility to make important decisions about a child, such as health care, education and welfare.
- Time-sharing scheduleIn Florida, the timetable in a parenting plan that sets when the child spends time with each parent, including overnights and holidays.
- VisitationThe time a child spends with a parent, often the parent the child doesn't mainly live with.
- Joint custodyCustody shared by both parents, either for decision-making (joint legal custody), for where the child lives (joint physical custody), or both.
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Sources
The official documents this definition is based on, with the date we last read each one. Definitions are in our own words.
General information, not legal advice. MediationList is not a law firm. Spotted an error? Tell us.
Cite this page
MediationList. (2026, October 28). Physical custody: Definition. https://mediationlist.com/glossary/physical-custody/
APA 7th ed. A retrieval date is included only for pages whose content changes, such as maps, data and tools.