Los Angeles, CA family law attorney Nina Shayan Depatie talks about the difference between physical and legal custody. She explains that physical custody refers to the parenting schedule and the amount of time each parent spends with the child, such as weekdays with one parent, weekends with the other, or any other court-approved arrangement. She clarifies that legal custody is separate from physical custody and relates to the authority to make important decisions regarding a child’s education, medical care, and overall welfare, including matters such as school selection, healthcare providers, and medical treatment. She emphasizes that legal custody is a significant aspect of family law because it determines who has decision-making authority for the child and is an important issue the court may address if the matter proceeds to litigation.