Custody/ˈkʌstədi/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Divorce Connotations Custody implies a legal decision after a divorce about who raises the children. She fought hard for sole custody during the proceedings. Pro Tip 2/3Shared Responsibilities 'Joint custody' means both parents share responsibility for their child. The parents agreed on joint custody of their son. Pro Tip 3/3Variations in Laws Custody laws vary by region, reflecting cultural values about family. In some countries, custody is more often awarded to mothers.