Child Custody Court--the Information You Need To Be Prepared

By:


Many divorced parents are understandably nervous about going to child custody court. This is the place where a judge could determine the future of your parenting time--so of course parents are going to be nervous! The best way to deal with the anxiety that going to family court brings is to have as much information about it as possible. Here are some common questions and answers that come up about child custody court.

1. Who goes to custody court? This depends on the state you live. In some places, every divorced parent must at least appear in court. In others you can handle things through mediation and sidestep the courtroom. Anyone who has a custody dispute can go to family court--that includes parents who were never married, and grandparents who want to spend time with their grandchildren.

2. What decisions does the custody court make? This depends on what you bring to the court. If parents are able to sit down and come up with a child custody agreement then the court will just accept it--and in some states if parents can agree on an arrangement they don't even need to go to court. In other states they just need to make the appearance. If parents are not able to agree on their custody situation then the judge will decide on the agreement and the issues about custody.

3. What factors does the court consider when deciding child custody cases? The basic rule for the family court when deciding custody cases is to do what is in the best interest of the child. They'll consider such questions as who is the child's primary caretaker, who is able to provide a stable living environment, if there are any factors in either parent's life that would negatively affect the child. The court only considers live-in relationships or non-marital sexual relations if they affect the child. The judge may also decide to talk to the child to find out what the child wants. Generally the judge will talk to the child in private.

4. Does a judge or a jury preside at custody court? Usually a single judge presides at the court, however, either parent has the right to request a jury.

5. What can I do to show the judge that I'm a responsible parent? The court looks favorably on parents who try to cooperate to support their kids. In the time before the court, make sure that you always let your spouse know what you are doing with the kids and the times you'll drop them off or pick them up. Be reliable. If you're not, it will come up in court.

You want custody court to be a positive experience in your life--so it is important that you learn as much as you can about it before you go. The more information you have about family court, the more prepared you can be to make a favorable impression, and then get a child custody situation that you like.


About the Author:
Learn more about preparing for child custody court and other important child custody information.



Article Originally Published On: http://www.articlesnatch.com


|

Loading...
Related....
Videos...

Recent UnCategorized Articles

Comments

Still can't find what you are looking for? Search for it!

Loading

Copyright 2005-2011 ArticleSnatch, LLC - All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Terms of Service.