What is the difference between shared and sole custody in Quebec?

In Québec, shared custody means each parent cares for the child at least 40% of the time over the year, as defined by the Federal Child Support Guidelines (s. 9). Decision-making and daily care are divided, and both parents must cooperate closely. Sole custody means one parent has primary care and decision-making authority, while the other parent typically has visitation or parental time. Under C.c.Q. art. 604 and Divorce Act s. 16, courts determine custody based solely on the child’s best interests, considering stability, parenting capacity, and parental cooperation.