Understanding Child Custody
Understanding Child Custody
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How to File and Prepare for a Child Custody Case
Learn how child custody cases work, including how to open a case, get help agreeing on a parenting plan, and prepare for a custody hearing.
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How to Create a Custody Agreement
If you want to avoid an expensive, stressful court battle over child custody, you can agree on a parenting plan. Learn how.
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Joint Child Custody: Do the Advantages Outweigh the Disadvantages?
Learn about the pros and cons of joint child custody, when it might—or might not—be the best choice for you and your children, and how to make shared parenting work.
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Understanding what it means to be custodial parent is key to negotiating the custody arrangement you want.
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If you're in a contested custody trial, the judge may order a custody evaluation. Continue reading to learn more about the experts that prepare these reports.
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Child Custody Mediation: How It Works and Tips for Success
Child custody can be one of the most contentious issues in a divorce. Learn more about how child custody mediation can help divorcing couples come up with the best solutions for their families.
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Do I Need a Child Custody Lawyer?
Going through a custody battle can be a challenge, especially when you're doing it on your own. Here’s some information about when it might be time to hire a child custody lawyer.
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Divorce and Co-Parenting: Is Birdnesting Right for You?
Some divorced parents are turning to a rare custody arrangement called birdnesting to ease the transition for their kids—but it requires serious coordination and emotional resilience. Could it be the gentlest way to split?
Child Custody Resources
Child Custody Resources
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Nolo's Essential Guide to Child Custody and Support, by Emily Doskow
The complete guide to child custody issues.
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Nolo's Essential Guide to Divorce, by Emily Doskow
Everything you need to know about divorce.
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The Best Interests of the Child: Factors Judges Consider in Deciding Custody
Learn what judges look for when they're deciding which parenting arrangements would be in the children's best interests.
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Child Custody and Domestic Violence
Victims of domestic violence and their children have access to protection by law. Find out how to protect yourself and your children.
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Parental Rights and Responsibilities
Divorce can be incredibly stressful when children are involved. Learning about your parental rights and responsibilities can help to reduce additional anxiety down the road.
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Child Custody Evaluations: Do’s and Don’ts for Parents
If a child custody evaluation is part of your divorce, make sure you handle it well.
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Find out whether the family court would allow you to change your child's name.
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Differences Between Legal and Physical Child Custody
What's the difference between legal and physical custody, and what do they look like?
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International Child Custody Laws
This article provides an overview of the laws relating to international child abductions and move-away cases.
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How to Deal With an Ex Who's Withholding Child Visitation
Learn about your rights to parenting time and how you can enforce those rights when the other parent won't let you see your child.
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Enforcing Child Custody and Visitation Orders in California
If you live in California and think your ex is violating your child custody or visitation order, how do you start enforcing the order?
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Can a Custodial Parent Move a Child Out of State?
Learn how courts make custody decisions when one parent wants to relocate with the children after a divorce.
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Child Custody and Domestic Violence
Victims of domestic violence and their children have access to protection by law. Find out how to protect yourself and your children.
