What to Do When You Have Proof of Child Abuse or Child Neglect by the Other Parent
If there is clear evidence of child abuse or child neglect by the other parent, you should seek intervention by a judge immediately.
→ Read MoreGeneral Child Custody Information
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Voluntary Termination of Parental Rights
Termination of parental rights may be voluntary or involuntary. Voluntary termination of parental rights is difficult except under certain circumstances.
→ Read MoreCommon Arrangements for Child Custody and Child Visitation
When two parents separate, child visitation is often the key issue. In every state, parents are urged to create a parenting plan either on their own or with the help of a mediator or collaborative divorce coach. The court will get involved and litigate the issue, but usually only if there are extenuating circumstances (i.e., domestic violence, drugs, abuse) or if the parents are unable to establish a custody or child visitation agreement on their own.
→ Read MoreChild Custody Rights and Child Support Obligations for Step-Parents After Divorce
After a second divorce, child custody rights issues may get even more complicated. If young children have bonded with a step-parent, it might be in their best interest to continue to see the step-parent, and it might also be beneficial for both parents to continue to support the children.
→ Read MoreWhat if both parents agree on child custody and visitation arrangements?
When separating parents do get along and can agree to a reasonable custody or visitation schedule for their child(ren), the court is generally going to be responsive in formalizing that agreement (i.e., parenting plan) and making it legal. If there is a substantial or significant change in circumstances since the original custody or visitation orders, courts again urge the disputing parents to resolve the differences, without the need for the court to modify the original order of custody or visitation.
→ Read MoreWhat is child custody?
Child custody refers to guardianship of a child. This may refer to physical custody, wherein you have the right to have the child physically under your care. It may also refer to legal custody, where you have the right to make decisions for a child but do not actually have the child living with you.
→ Read MoreGetting Your First Child Custody Order
The first child custody order in many paternity and divorce suits is actually a temporary order. Despite being a temporary order, this preliminary custody order can have an impact on future custody decisions.
→ Read MoreChild Custody Basics: How Do I Get Custody of My Children?
Find out how to get custody of your children in a divorce.
→ Read MoreWhat is a custodial parent?
The terms custodial parent and non-custodial parent are used in instances where two parents of a child have broken up and are no longer living together. Under a custody arrangement, one parent may receive custody of the child; the child lives with that parent. That parent is the custodial parent. The other parent, who may have visitation rights depending on the circumstances, is referred to as the non-custodial parent.
→ Read MoreNon-Custodial Parent Rights
Non-custodial parent rights depend on whether the parent also has joint legal custody with the custodial parent.
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