Child custody

Often the most difficult and contentious aspect of a divorce is the custody of children. The issue of custody is complicated and depends on many factors. In many cases, some form of joint custody is arranged, though in cases of abuse or other cases where cooperation of the parties in parenting matters is an issue, sole custody can be the appropriate alternative. There is no firm legal definition of joint custody; that definition is negotiated in each unique divorce proceeding. Amil Alkass is skilled in this area of law and can guide you carefully through the process. In the simplest definition, custody means decision making authority. It is advisable to have a document that sets forth what types of decisions require joint input. The custodial, or residential parent, should have authority to make all routine day-to-day decisions such as bed time, signing permission slips for class trips at school or making doctor appointments. Both parents might decide to share decision making authority on major issues such as elective surgery, religious upbringing and post-high school education options. In all instances, whether custody is sole or joint, the parents have an obligation to inform each other about matters affecting the children, including dates for parent-teacher conferences, school events and progress in school.

Develop a custody arrangement that meets your child's best interests.