Decision-Making Authority (Custody)
Did you know? The term “custody” is now referred to as major decision-making, which better reflects the meaning of the word and responsibilities that come with it
Decision-making responsibility for a minor child can be awarded to one or both of the child’s parents
What Is Decision-Making Responsibility?
In Ontario, Decision Making Responsibility, formerly known as custody, refers to a parent’s legal authority to make important decisions about their child’s upbringing. These decisions typically relate to the child’s:
Education
School choice, tutoring, special programs
Health and Medical Care
Treatments, doctors, therapies
Religion and Spirituality
Faith-based practices or upbringing
Extra Curricular Activities
Sports, arts or special activities
Decision Making Responsibility is separate from parenting time (access) and focuses on who has the authority to make major life decisions for the child. It can be structured in different ways:
- Sole Decision‑Making Responsibility: One parent makes all major decisions.
- Joint Decision‑Making Responsibility: Both parents make major decisions together.
- Divided or Parallel Decision‑Making: Each parent is responsible for certain types of decisions.
Courts in Ontario always prioritize the best interests of the child when determining how decision‑making responsibility is allocated.
At Mahin Law, we help parents navigate these decisions, create clear agreements, and, when necessary, advocate for your parental rights in court or through negotiation.
Disclaimer:
The content on Mahin Law’s website is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please contact a lawyer for legal advice. At Mahin Law, we are here to provide you with the professional legal representation you need to navigate your Family Law matters effectively. Click here to read our full disclaimer.