10/01/2026
�� What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?
Many parents entering a custody discussion assume custody is a single concept. In Alaska,
however, legal custody and physical custody address two different aspects of a child's
life.
Jeremy Collier of Collier Law in Wasilla, AK explains the difference:
✔ Legal custody involves major decisions regarding a child's education, medical care, and
other important matters.
✔ Physical custody focuses on where a child lives and who provides day-to-day care.
These types of custody are evaluated separately, meaning a parent's role in major decisions
does not necessarily depend on how much physical parenting time they have.
For families in the Mat-Su Valley, practical considerations such as work schedules, travel,
school routines, and distance between communities can also influence custody arrangements.
Understanding these distinctions can help parents approach custody discussions with clearer
expectations and a stronger focus on what supports their child's well-being.
Read the full article here:
https://hellonation.com/mag/AK/Wasilla/19477?page_id=496983
HelloWasilla • Legal Custody and Physical Custody Explained for Alaska Parents