Custody and Child Support

How Does The Court Decide Who Gets The Children?
At the outset, it is important to understand that “custody” is usually divided into two separate categories – legal custody and physical custody. Usually, both parents are … more
What Happens If I Need To Relocate?
Should a parent need to relocate, the court will continue to use the “best interests” standard in determining where the child will go. There are federal laws that prohibit a … more
How Is Child Support Ordered And What Exactly Is It?
Child support is a court ordered monthly payment by one parent (often the non-custodial parent) to the other parent for the support of their common child. Federal law now requires that the amount … more

Do I need to hire a lawyer to establish or enforce a child support order?
Every state has child support agencies that are set up to help you establish and enforce a child support order. By filling out a short application and submitting a copy of your support order, if one already exists, you easily can enlist the help of your local child support office. These offices offer free child support services to people who receive public assistance, such as … more
Termination of Parental Rights
A legal termination of parental rights differs significantly from simply agreeing to not seek custody and/or visitation with a child. While parents are typically free to choose to live apart from or refrain from visiting with their children, they likely have a legal right to do so if they so choose. On the other hand, a legal termination of parental rights permanently prohibits a … more