All states have different policies around child custody, and the state of Florida is no exception. Currently, the preferred way of dealing with divorced parents and their children is through joint custody in Florida. By doing this, the parents are agreeing that it is in the best interests of their child to have ongoing and regular interaction and contact with both parents. Joint custody in Florida also means that both parents retain authority in making major and day to day decisions about their child's life. For example, if a divorced couple has joint custody, both must agree on which schools the child will attend, or which doctors and dentists they will use. Most states identify this as joint legal custody, but only in terms of distinguishing it from the far less preferable joint physical custody.