What is it called when parents share legal responsibility for their children?

The term "joint custody" specifically refers to a legal arrangement in which both parents share the responsibilities and rights concerning the upbringing of their children after separation or divorce. This arrangement emphasizes collaboration between parents in making decisions regarding the child's welfare, education, and health, ensuring that both parents remain significantly involved in their child's life.

In contrast, custody alone can refer to a single parent's legal right to make decisions for the child, while neglect relates to the failure to provide proper care and support for a child, which is not related to the sharing of responsibilities. Reciprocity typically describes mutual exchange and is not used in the context of parental responsibilities. Thus, joint custody appropriately captures the essence of shared legal responsibility between parents.