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[QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 28397, member: 2262"]
Custody involves two critical components that shape how parents care for their children. Physical custody deals with where a child lives and who directly controls their day-to-day care. Legal custody focuses on making important decisions about the child's life, education, health, and overall well-being.

A landmark legal shift occurred when Zimbabwe's courts challenged outdated laws about parental rights. Previously, mothers of children born outside marriage automatically received full custody and guardianship, effectively excluding fathers from meaningful parental involvement. The High Court and Supreme Court decisively ruled that these traditional legal practices violated constitutional principles of equal parental rights.

The judicial system has since embraced a more equitable approach. Parents can now equally share custody and guardianship responsibilities, regardless of whether their children were born inside or outside of marriage. Courts carefully evaluate each family's unique circumstances, prioritizing the children's best interests when determining custody arrangements.

Zimbabwean courts recognize that children benefit most from meaningful relationships with both parents. Judges assess various factors to determine joint custody, looking closely at each parent's ability to provide emotional support, financial stability, and nurturing care. The goal remains to create stable, supportive environments that allow children to thrive and maintain strong connections with both parents.
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