Legal custody refers to the right and responsibility of a parent or guardian to make important decisions about a child's life. This includes choices about education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. Legal custody can be awarded to one parent (sole custody) or shared between both parents (joint custody). When parents separate or divorce, the court often determines legal custody arrangements based on the child's best interests. Factors considered may include the child's relationship with each parent, their living situation, and the ability of each parent to provide a stable environment.