Family courts determine child custody based on the best interests of the child. Unfortunately, this standard is subjective, and since both parents often think their children would be better off living with them, judges may have a difficult time deciding which of them gets custody. In an ideal situation, parents work together to create an arrangement that works for both of them as well as the children. When that isn’t possible, there are other options.
Mediation
Every parent who suspects they might have a problem setting up a parenting plan with their former spouse should start looking for a child custody lawyer around New Ulm, MN early in the divorce process. By bringing in early an experienced child custody lawyer, parents may be able to solve their issues through mediation. Mediation is a process that is sometimes ordered by the court and involves both spouses sitting down with a disinterested third party to solve complicated issues. Working out a parenting plan in mediation gives the parents control over where their kids are at all times, rather than having the judge make that decision.
Litigation
Courts often suggest parents attempt mediation before litigation. However, when they are unable to come to an agreement, litigation may be the only other option. A trial could be long and emotionally exhausting. It’s important for parents involved in a court battle to have a child custody lawyer around New Ulm, MN by their sides. In a trial, both parties will get a chance to convince the judge that the children living with them is in the kids best interest. The judge may decide to give one parent or the other sole custody or to order shared parenting. When the court orders the parents to share custody of the children, the parents may have less control over the children’s schedules.
Parents know their children better than any lawyers or family court judge. When parents can agree on what is best for their children, they may be more likely to leave the marriage with a plan that benefits everyone. Parents who need an experienced child custody attorney should visit Blatzlawminnesota.com to learn more about how an attorney could help them solve their custody matter.
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