Not only are custody and visitation issues the most challenging and emotional aspects of a Dissolution of Marriage or Paternity action, they are also the most important issues which have the most impact on lives. 

Sharing one’s child is quite possibly the most difficult thing one has had to do. Ideally, parties can resolve these issues as coparents without court intervention. If the parties are unable to do so, the court will ultimately decide what is in the best interest of the children, which is the standard used by the court.  Parents who are unable to reach agreements regarding the parenting of their children will attend mediation through Family Court Services. Unlike traditional mediation, if the parents are unable to reach an agreement with respect to the best interests of their children, the mediator will make a recommendation to the court.

It is the goal to promote frequent and continuous contact with both parents, if it can be done in a manner that is safe for children and in their best interest. The court will make both legal and physical custody orders. Legal custody allows parents to make decisions relating to a child’s health, education, and welfare. Many parents share joint legal custody. Physical custody order deal more with the day to day child sharing schedule. 

Child custody orders are never set in stone forever. They are always subject to modification if it can be shown that a change of circumstances has occurred and that a modification to the order is in the child’s best interest.

Decisions regarding custody will impact families, children, and extended families forever. Anderson Family Law is available to prepare for your mediation. We are also available to help you through this emotional process and advocate for your child.

If you wish to schedule a consultation with Katie Anderson, contact us here or call (760) 291-4105.