Is a signed agreement legally binding?

Yes when signed with clear intent and consent and when it complies with applicable state or federal rules on electronic records and signatures; the ESIGN Act and state UETA statutes generally recognize e-signed agreements as enforceable for interstate and intrastate transactions.

Can I e-sign a parenting agreement?

Many jurisdictions accept electronic signatures where parties consent and the record is retained. Use secure platforms that capture attribution, timestamp, and an audit trail to meet legal-validity criteria.

Do I need a notary or witnesses?

Notarization or witnesses are required for some types of family documents in certain states. Check local family court rules; remote online notarization (RON) is available in many states but not universally.

How do I change the agreement later?

Include an amendment clause specifying written consent or court modification procedures. If parties agree, execute a written amendment and follow any court filing requirements to update an existing order.

What if parents disagree on a major decision?

Refer to the dispute-resolution clause in the agreement: many plans require mediation first, then arbitration or court petition if mediation fails, to minimize emergency litigation.

Where should I file the executed document?

File with the family court that has jurisdiction over your matter if you want the agreement incorporated as a court order; if not filing, keep notarized or fully signed copies with counsel for enforcement purposes.

Electronic Signature
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Joint Legal Decision Making

Joint Legal Decision Making

This template is fully customizable. Edit the text, fill out the fields, and send it for signature. Give it a try!

Parenting Plan for Joint or Sole Legal Decision-Making

Person Filing:

Address (if not protected):

City, State, Zip Code:

Telephone:

Email Address:

ATLAS Number:

Lawyer’s Bar Number:

Representing: Self, without a Lawyer Attorney for Petitioner Respondent

SUPERIOR COURT OF ARIZONA

IN COUNTY

Name of Petitioner / Party A

Case Number

PARENTING PLAN FOR:

JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY) WITH JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY) AGREEMENT

Or

SOLE LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY)
to Party A
to Party B

INSTRUCTIONS

This document has 4 parts: PART 1) General Information; PART 2) Legal Decision-Making (Legal Custody) and Parenting Time; PART 3) Danger to Children Notification Statement; and PART 4) Joint Legal Decision-Making (Joint Legal Custody) Agreement.

PART 1: GENERAL INFORMATION

A. MINOR CHILDREN

B. THE FOLLOWING LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (LEGAL CUSTODY) ARRANGEMENT IS REQUESTED

1. SOLE LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY) BY AGREEMENT
Party A Party B

2. SOLE LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (SOLE LEGAL CUSTODY) REQUESTED BY THE PARENT SUBMITTING THIS PLAN

RESTRICTED, SUPERVISED, OR NO PARENTING TIME

3. JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING (JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY) BY AGREEMENT
Primary physical custody will be with the Party A Party B

4. JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY (JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY) REQUESTED BY THE PARENT SUBMITTING THIS PLAN

PART 2: PHYSICAL CUSTODY AND PARENTING TIME

A. (School Year) WEEKDAY AND WEEKEND TIME-SHARING SCHEDULE

The minor children will be in the care of Party A as follows:

The minor children will be in the care of Party B as follows:

Other physical custody arrangements are as follows:

Transportation will be provided as follows: will pick the minor children up at o'clock.

will drop the minor children off at o'clock.

Parents may change their time-share arrangements by mutual agreement with at least days' notice in advance to the other parent.

B. SUMMER MONTHS OR SCHOOL BREAK LONGER THAN 4 DAYS

During summer months or school breaks that last longer than 4 days, no changes shall be made.

During summer months or school breaks that last longer than 4 days, the minor children will be in the care of Party A

During summer months or school breaks that last longer than 4 days, the minor children will be in the care of Party B

Each parent is entitled to a week period of vacation time with the minor children. The parents will work out the details of the vacation at least days in advance.

C. TRAVEL

Should either parent travel out of the area with the minor children, each parent will keep the other parent informed of travel plans, address(es), and telephone number(s).

Neither parent shall travel with the minor children outside Arizona for longer than days without prior written consent.

D. HOLIDAY SCHEDULE

Holiday schedule takes priority over the regular time-sharing schedule.

Holiday	Even Years	Odd Years
New Year's Eve	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
New Year’s Day	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Spring Vacation	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Easter	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
4th of July	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Halloween	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Veteran’s Day	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Thanksgiving	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Hanukkah	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Christmas Eve	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Christmas Day	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Winter Break	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Child’s Birthday	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Mother's Day	Party A Party B	Party A Party B
Father's Day	Party A Party B	Party A Party B

Each parent may have the children on his or her birthday.

Three-day weekends remain with the parent who has the children for the weekend.

Other Holidays:

Telephone Contact: during the children's normal waking hours

Other:

E. PARENTAL ACCESS TO RECORDS AND INFORMATION

Both parents are entitled to equal access to documents and other information concerning the minor children.

F. EDUCATIONAL ARRANGEMENTS

Both parents have the right to participate in school conferences, events and activities.

Both parents will make major educational decisions together.

OR

Major educational decisions will be made by Party A Party B after consulting other parent.

G. MEDICAL AND DENTAL ARRANGEMENTS

Both parents have the right to authorize emergency medical treatment.

Both parents will make major medical decisions together.

OR

Major medical/dental decisions will be made by Party A Party B after consulting other parent.

H. RELIGIOUS EDUCATION ARRANGEMENTS

Each parent may take the minor children to a church or place of worship of his or her choice.

Both parents agree that the minor children may be instructed in the faith.

Both parents agree that religious arrangements are not applicable to this plan.

I. ADDITIONAL ARRANGEMENTS AND COMMENTS

Notify other parent of address change within days.

Notify other parent of emergency.

Talk to other parent about extra activities.

Ask other parent if he/she wants to take care of children.

Obtain written consent before moving.

Communicate directly between parents.

Method of Communication:

Frequency of Communication:

Methods: Phone Email Other

Praise other parent.

Cooperate and work together.

Notify other parent of problems with time-sharing ahead of time.

Use the most recent Parenting Plan/Access Agreement in place before the move.

Mediation may be requested if unable to reach agreement.

NOTICE

Do not deviate from plan until dispute is resolved.

PART 2: SIGNATURE OF ONE OR BOTH PARENTS

Signature of Party A

Date

Signature of Party B

Date

PART 3: STATEMENT REGARDING CONTACT WITH SEX OFFENDERS AND PERSONS CONVICTED OF DANGEROUS CRIMES AGAINST CHILDREN

According to A.R.S. §25-403.05, a child’s parent or custodian must immediately notify the other parent or custodian if the person knows that a convicted or registered sex offender or someone who has been convicted of a dangerous crime against children may have access to the child.

Notice may be provided by first class mail, return receipt requested, electronic means, or another form of communication accepted by the court.

Dangerous crime against children includes offenses such as second degree murder, aggravated assault, sexual assault, molestation, sexual conduct with a minor, child abuse, kidnapping, and others listed by statute.

PART 3: SIGNATURE OF ONE OR BOTH PARENTS

Signature of Party A

Date

Signature of Party B

Date

PART 4: JOINT LEGAL DECISION MAKING (JOINT LEGAL CUSTODY) AGREEMENT

A. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

Domestic Violence has not occurred between the parties

Domestic Violence has occurred but it has not been significant or has been committed by both parties

B. DUI OR DRUG CONVICTIONS

Neither party has been convicted of driving under the influence or a drug offense within the past 12 months

One of the parties has been convicted but joint legal decision-making is in the best interest of the children

If there has been domestic violence or a DUI or drug conviction, attach an extra page explaining why joint legal decision-making is still in the best interest of the children.

C. JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING AGREEMENT

Review every month(s) from the date of this document.

Criteria required by Arizona law:

PART 4: SIGNATURES OF BOTH PARENTS REQUESTING JOINT LEGAL DECISION-MAKING AUTHORITY

Signature of Party A

Date

Signature of Party B

Date

What Joint Legal Decision Making Means

Joint Legal Decision Making is a parenting agreement or court order that gives both parents shared authority to make major decisions affecting a child’s welfare, including education, health care, and religious upbringing. It separates decision-making authority from physical custody and focuses on who has legal responsibility for long-term choices. The agreement can be established by mutual consent, incorporated into divorce or custody proceedings, or entered as a standalone parenting plan in family court. Parties often specify communication protocols, dispute-resolution steps, and how to amend the arrangement if circumstances change.

Why a Clear Joint Legal Decision Making Agreement Matters

A written joint legal decision making agreement reduces ambiguity about parental authority, helps avoid court disputes, and documents agreed processes for medical, educational, and religious choices. It clarifies responsibilities and creates a record that courts recognize when enforcing parental obligations.

Who Typically Uses Joint Legal Decision Making

Parents negotiating custody, family law attorneys, mediators, and family court clerks commonly use this document when allocating decision-making authority for children.

Co-parents evenly sharing legal authority while living separately or together.
Attorneys preparing parenting plans for divorce or custody litigation.
Mediators documenting mutually agreed decision-making protocols.

The document also serves agencies and schools that may request written evidence of who may consent to education or medical services.

Key Parties and Professionals Involved

Co-parent

Two parents who share responsibility for major decisions about a child; both must understand the scope of authority, communication requirements, and amendment process to avoid later disputes.

Family Attorney

A family law attorney reviews legal language, confirms enforceability under state law, and ensures the agreement aligns with existing court orders or parenting plans before filing.

Essential Elements to Include in a Professional Agreement

A complete Joint Legal Decision Making document should clearly name parties, identify children, define decision areas, specify communication protocols, outline dispute resolution, and state how to amend or terminate the arrangement.

Parties

Full legal names and contact information for each parent and, if applicable, a guardian or third party authorized to receive notices.

Children

List each child by full name and date of birth to avoid ambiguity across medical, educational, and legal records.

Decision Areas

Specify which major decisions are joint (education, medical, religion) and which, if any, can be made unilaterally.

Communication Protocol

Describe required notice periods, preferred communication channels, and how urgent decisions are handled.

Dispute Resolution

Include mediation, arbitration, or court procedures to resolve disagreements before filing motions in family court.

Amendment & Termination

Explain how changes are made, whether written consent is required, and conditions for court modification.

Step-by-Step: Drafting and Finalizing the Agreement

Follow a clear sequence to create an enforceable joint legal decision making agreement that reflects both parties’ intent and complies with local court practices.

01

Gather Information: Collect names, DOBs, addresses, and existing court orders.
02

Draft Terms: Define decision areas, notice periods, and dispute processes.
03

Review & Revise: Have each party and counsel review language for clarity and legality.
04

Execute & File: Sign per jurisdictional rules, notarize if required, and file with family court if needed.

Digital Workflow for Completing and Signing Online

An electronic workflow speeds execution and creates an audit trail while preserving legal requirements for intent, consent, attribution, and retention.

Prepare Document: Upload finalized agreement and map signature, date, and initial fields.
Set Authentication: Choose signer authentication (email, SMS code, or stronger) consistent with court expectations.
Send for Signature: Distribute signing links or invites in the specified order to each party.
Archive Executed Copy: Store signed PDF with audit trail and distribute copies to parties and counsel.

Recommended Online Configuration for Joint Legal Decision Making

Configure fields and security settings to reflect document sensitivity and the need for an evidentiary audit trail.

Field	Configuration
Authentication	Email link or SMS code; use KBA for higher assurance.
Conditional Fields	Show custody-specific fields only when chosen options apply.
Templates	Save a template for repeatable parenting-plan clauses.
Notifications	Enable signer reminders and completion receipts.

Technical and Integration Considerations for eSigning

Choose a platform that supports required authentication, audit trails, and file formats used by courts and service providers.

Integrations: Salesforce, NetSuite, Microsoft 365 integrations available.
File Types: Accepts PDF, DOCX, HTML and Excel inputs/outputs.
Security: Encryption in transit and at rest.

Confirm the chosen provider supports notarization workflows, RON sessions where permitted, and long-term storage for audit records.

Typical Timelines and Court Processing Expectations

Timing depends on whether the agreement is filed with a court, the court’s caseload, and whether parties seek immediate temporary orders.

Filing Timeframe:

Court filing can be same day to several weeks depending on jurisdiction.

Court Review:

Review and entry as an order often takes 2–12 weeks on average.

Notarization:

Notarization or witnesses may be required before filing in some states.

RON Availability:

Remote notarization can speed execution where state law permits.

Effective Date:

Effective date is the date listed in the document or court entry date.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using informal language that leaves decision areas ambiguous and invites later disputes.
Failing to list children by full legal name and date of birth, causing administrative confusion.
Skipping notarization where state practice or court rules expect it, risking rejection at filing.
Omitting an amendment process, making future changes cumbersome and litigation-prone.

Consequences of an Incorrect or Incomplete Agreement

Invalid Agreement: May be unenforceable

Conflict With Order: Could contradict existing court orders

Identity Errors: Mismatched names hinder enforcement

Missing Signatures: May be rejected by court

Delayed Protection: Rights may not take effect immediately

Enforcement Costs: Leads to extra attorney and court fees

eSignature Vendor Snapshot for Completing Joint Legal Decision Making

Compare core pricing and capability points for typical eSignature providers. signNow appears first as a documented option; verify final plan details with each vendor before purchase.

	signNow	DocuSign	Adobe Sign	PandaDoc	HelloSign
Starting Price	$8/user/mo	$15/user/mo	$14/user/mo	$19/user/mo	$15/user/mo
Free Trial	Yes, 7-day trial	Varies	Varies	Varies	Varies
Bulk Send	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	No
Audit Trail	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
HIPAA Compliant	Yes	Yes	Yes	No	No

Security and Compliance Features to Verify

Encryption: TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit; AES-256 at rest

HIPAA: Business Associate Agreement required for PHI handling

21 CFR Part 11: Support for electronic records and signatures where needed

SOC 2: SOC 2 Type II compliance and reports available

ISO: ISO 27001-certified information security management

Accessibility: WCAG 2.0 Level AA conformance for accessibility

Real-World Examples of Digital Execution and Use

These brief customer examples illustrate how organizations use electronic signatures to complete binding agreements and improve workflow.

Optica Ventures (Brian Fitzgibbons)

The interface is simple and easy-to-use for our team; more importantly, it is just as easy for our customers.

Faster turnaround on executed documents.
The result was reliable completion and fewer follow-ups, helping maintain client experience while ensuring executed agreements are securely archived.

Xerox (Kodi-Marie Evans)

airSlate SignNow provides us with the flexibility needed to get the right signatures on the right documents, in the right formats, based on our integration with NetSuite.

Integration reduced manual steps.
This enabled consistent processing across departments and simplified recordkeeping for legal and HR teams managing sensitive documents.

Frequently Asked Questions About Joint Legal Decision Making

Answers to common questions about validity, execution, modification, and digital signing of joint legal decision making agreements.

Need help? Contact support

Is a signed agreement legally binding?
Yes when signed with clear intent and consent and when it complies with applicable state or federal rules on electronic records and signatures; the ESIGN Act and state UETA statutes generally recognize e-signed agreements as enforceable for interstate and intrastate transactions.
Can I e-sign a parenting agreement?
Many jurisdictions accept electronic signatures where parties consent and the record is retained. Use secure platforms that capture attribution, timestamp, and an audit trail to meet legal-validity criteria.
Do I need a notary or witnesses?
Notarization or witnesses are required for some types of family documents in certain states. Check local family court rules; remote online notarization (RON) is available in many states but not universally.
How do I change the agreement later?
Include an amendment clause specifying written consent or court modification procedures. If parties agree, execute a written amendment and follow any court filing requirements to update an existing order.
What if parents disagree on a major decision?
Refer to the dispute-resolution clause in the agreement: many plans require mediation first, then arbitration or court petition if mediation fails, to minimize emergency litigation.
Where should I file the executed document?
File with the family court that has jurisdiction over your matter if you want the agreement incorporated as a court order; if not filing, keep notarized or fully signed copies with counsel for enforcement purposes.

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