How to Get Custody
One of the most crucial questions divorcing parents may have is "How to get custody of a child or children?" It is a vital inquiry and one with huge ramifications for both parents and children. The answer will vary widely, as child custody and visitation decisions can be made via a custody or parenting agreement reached out-of-court, or through court proceedings in front of a family court judge. Click on the links below for tips on how child custody decisions are made, as well as in-depth discussions on out-of-court custody agreements and custody decisions in family court.
- Getting Custody FAQ
Answers to frequently asked questions about which factors a court will consider when awarding custody of a child; suggestions for parents who are seeking custody; and related questions.
- Child Custody Mediation FAQ
Answers to frequently asked child custody mediation questions, such as the costs and benefits of the mediation process; options for mediation between two adversarial parents; and more.
- Parenting Agreements
Overview of parenting agreements, drafted by parents through out-of-court negotiations, that stipulate where a child will live primarily; where the child will spend certain holidays; and how disputes are settled.
- How Custody Decisions are Made
Basics of how courts decide how divorced or unmarried parents get custody of their child, typically based on a determination of the child’s best interests.
- Working Together to Resolve Custody
Various options for determining the custody of a child outside of the court room, such as settling through informal negotiations; collaboration; mediation; and other forms of alternative dispute resolution.
- Custody Considerations: Step-By-Step
A step-by-step guide to help parents through the child custody process, with considerations such as determining the type of custody sought; whether the court will make the final decision; and more.