Sole physical custody is when the child lives with only one parent on a day-to-day basis.

Joint physical custody is when there is an approximate and reasonable equal division of time with the child by both parents - this can either be agreed to by the parents or ordered by the judge.¹ It does not necessarily mean the child spends equal amounts of time with each parent. The child spends blocks of time with each of the parents, who share the right and responsibility to raise the child in their home. Each parent has more than simple visitation privileges.

Like joint legal custody, joint physical custody works best when both parents are able to put aside their differences and plan together for the welfare of the child. It is often very difficult when one parent has abused the other.

¹ A.C.A. § 9-13-101(a)(5)