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FAQ - Legal Decision Making and Parenting Time (Custody)

In the fall of 2024, the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) mailed letters to parents who once had an open dependecy and/or severance case.

Did you receive a letter? Visit the DCS letter page for more information.

How does joint legal decision making work?

When the court awards joint legal decision making, each parent has the same rights and responsibilities to make decisions about the care and welfare of the child and the rights of neither parent are superior to the other parent. However, in the best interest of the child, the court may direct that certain decisions be made by only one parent, even when joint legal custody is awarded.

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