Custody, access (visit) and decision making. Custody cases can involve several steps. Your case may include some or all of the following, depending on how much you and the other parent agree on custody:
Planning conference – Often the first opportunity for parties to meet in the courthouse. A judge or judge will help you identify the controversial (controversial) problems in the case. References to suitable resources such as mediation, pre-process comparison conference and a required co-parenting course are made and case deadlines are set.Pre-Trial Settlement
Conference – This is a pre-trial conference where a judge or judge may try to help you reach an agreement, often even if you tried mediation and were unable Toto settle all disputes. If the problems remain unresolved after mediation and the settlement of the preliminary proceedings, the judge will discuss with the parties how the proceedings will proceed.
Process – The process is the final hearing at which the court decides how to divide custody or parental leave with the child, how important decisions (custody) are made about the child, and how the child receives financial support. The court decides on these matters in the best interests of the child. Each case is unique and there are no standard agreements that the court has to order. One parent with whom the child lives most of the time is usually referred to as primary custody, while the other parent has access (or visit) on a set or flexible schedule. Decision making (custody) can be communicated or granted to one parent depending on how well both parents can communicate and work together in the best interest of their child.
Family Services Programs, six districts have a designated family department, and each district has a family service program that is administered by family service employees. Most family law cases involving children are referred to family support services, which can include:
Co-parenting course – Most courts require parents to participate in this course in controversial family cases involving children. The following can be discussed in a co-parenting course: How does divorce affect children and parents emotionally? Changes in the parent-child relationship; transitions between households; communication with children and with the other party; problem solving and decisions make; and other topics.
Custody Assessment – This is an assessment by a particular assessor to help the court understand what is in the child’s best interest. The custodian meets with every parent and usually every child. They also interview people who may know the family history and ability of each parent to take care of the child, and refer to the references provided by the parents. Evaluators can review important records and other information such as medical and school records. Finally, the assessor can visit each parent’s home to observe family life. The evaluator usually produces a written report and can testify in court.In some cases, custody assessments are ordered based on the issues at hand.
Parent coordination – This is a process in which parents work with a neutral professional to reduce the impact of conflict on the child. The parenting coordinator will use various alternative dispute resolution techniques to help the family.
Mediation – Most custody cases relate to mediation, where a mediator helps parents define problems, improves communication about childcare and upbringing, and facilitates the development of an education plan or parenting agreement. Mediation can also help resolve disagreements about marital property and other family issues.
Mental health assessment and treatment – The court may need to assess a parent’s ability to care for a child or assess the child’s needs. If a court orders a mental health assessment, a forensic psychologist or private clinician (who has no relationship with the person) will interview the parent or child and prepare a written report for the court and possibly testify. The court can also instruct a parent or child or refer to family or individual counseling. Access / visit services for children,
Supervised Exchange – Provides a safe place for the child’s physical exchange. This service can help reduce the likelihood of angry exchanges or inappropriate behavior in front of the child.
Monitored visits – If the court decides that a higher level of protection is required, parents can have visits to a center that provides adequate monitoring. The caring parent takes the child to a center where trained personnel are present to monitor the visit, model positive behavior, and ensure positive interaction between the visiting parent and the child.