Legal Question in Family Law in Massachusetts

Re: Legal Custody vs. Physical Custody

That is essentially correct. Joint legal custody means, except in an emergency where the other parent cannot be contacted immediately, both parents must agree on medical care, education and where the child lives. You can ask to be included in any medical visit, to be given copies of medical test results and records, report cards, etc. Of course, it also means being available to take the child to a medical visit, to go to the school on parents' night or whenever you can to be involved in your child's school activities or after-school activities.

If you have tried to be (I hate this word) pro-active with respect to your child, and the mother refuses to allow you access or discuss these issues, a complaint for contempt would be what you would have to file.

Keep in mind also that when you have the child (physical custody) for visitation, you are also expected to contact the mother if anything medical needs to be done, or if the child is or wants to be engaging in some activity.