One thing that the courts consider when deciding how to divide child custody is who served as the primary caretaker for the children. This just means who provided the most daily care to the children when the couple was married. Of course, there are many marriages...
Complex Family Law Matters Require Sophisticated Solutions
Child Custody
3 reasons the courts might limit your parental rights
When you and the other parent of your children split up, protecting your parental rights is probably your top priority. You want to have access to and time with your children. You may also want to play a role in making decisions about their health care and their...
Your child’s college costs should be part of divorce negotiations
If your child is still in grade school or younger when you divorce, you and your spouse may not be giving much thought to their college education. However, divorce can throw a wrench into college savings. That’s why it’s often wise for parents to negotiate how...
Why is it wrong to think about winning custody?
Newspaper reporting of divorce often refers to a custody battle or one parent winning custody. This way of phrasing things can make you think you also need to fight to “win” custody of your child. First, custody does not need to be a battle, and it is better for all...
What is the role of a guardian ad litem in a divorce?
Some divorces move forward without a hitch. Others, though, become acrimonious and very complicated. When a particularly contentious divorce involves children, the court might decide to get a guardian ad litem involved. But what is a guardian ad litem, and what do...
Can you lose custody of your child because of a disability?
You have a disability that limits your physical abilities, but does that stop you from being an effective parent? Your co-parent would like the court to believe that’s so -- and you’re concerned that the court may agree. The reality is that parents with disabilities...
Is sole custody common after a divorce?
In a divorce, sole custody means that rights are granted to only one parent. This could include both legal custody -- decision-making power -- and physical custody. Joint custody is when one of both of these rights are shared between both parents. If you’re getting...
Updating contact information at your child’s school amid divorce
Many parents are approaching the first school year since their separation or divorce. If you and your co-parent are sharing custody, you’ll need to decide how you can remain involved in your child’s schoolwork and extracurricular activities without conflict. You’ll...
How do you determine what is in the best interests of your kids?
Parents frequently disagree about what custody solutions are fair in a divorce. They may need the help of a mediator or even a family law judge to create a working parenting plan. These professionals will try to apply state law as they guide the family towards...
A post-decree custody modification doesn’t need to be a battle
The terms set for custody in your divorce or your parenting plan created by the judge will tell you when to pick up your kids and when you have to bring them back to your ex. The rules set in the custody order establish everything from your weekday parenting schedule...