Joint Custody Decisions?

Question of the Day:

We have agreed to joint custody although our son will be with her more than 50% of the time because she is remaining in the marital home and I work longer hours than she does. Does this give her more rights than me as far as daycare decisions, medical issues, etc? – Tyler

Answer:

Tyler: Each parent can make day to day decisions when the child is in his or her control, like which babysitter to use or medical care in an emergency.  But joint custody means that the parents have to agree on long term parenting decisions that affect the health and well-being of the child, including those related to education, medical treatment and religion.