When both parents share custody of a child following a divorce or separation, the legal definition is referred to as ﾑjoint legal custody'. And, this decision means that both parents share in the parenting decisions involved throughout the child or children's life. Example decisions could be related to medical, religious practices, education and extracurricular activities. Joint legal custody refers to two components of the child's life- legal and physical. Legal custody refers to issues surrounding decision making. Physical custody refers to the child's environment, activities and overall lifestyle. While couples can decide to award joint custody on their own, courts often become involved during divorce cases. In the event that the court does become involved, the ultimate consideration becomes what is in the best interest of the child/children.