While ironing out the specifics of your divorce, you and your former spouse must decide how you want to raise your shared children together. Do you know how to create a solid parenting plan? To help, see what Our Family Wizard suggests for spending time with your...
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Child Custody
What is a guardian ad litem?
In Latin, "ad litem" means "to court". In a contemporary context, it means "for a specific action". Therefore, a guardian ad litem is a representative the court appoints to represent someone during a specific case. This function is similar to other types of attorneys....
Common California visitation schedules
When parents divorce in California, the court requires them to come up with a parenting plan that meets their needs. This must include a schedule of when each parent has physical custody or visitation time with the child. Reviewing commonly used visitation schedules...
How do courts choose minor counsel for custody cases?
In California, minors do not typically have a place to discuss their preferences in court or with the judge directly. In instances where the child needs a neutral voice that can uphold the rights of the child and work in his or her best interests, the court may...
Who and what determines child custody?
One of the most important decisions divorcing parents must make relates to child custody. When deciding who should have custody, there are various factors to consider. Although parents may want to make a decision based on selfish reasons, it is important they consider...
Relocating with the kids after your divorce
What Happens After the Divorce? Following your divorce, opportunities may arise that could prompt you to move away from Torrance. Your career might dictate that you away. You may enter into a relationship with someone living in another area. Or you may want to simply...
Custody issues and seasonal affective disorder
For some people, the winter months can be particularly difficult. During this time of year, a number of Americans struggle with seasonal affective disorder (SAD). People who have this mood disorder may experience higher levels of depression, and they may also be more...
When to seek an emergency custody modification
If you share custody of your children with a former spouse, you likely know the ins and outs of your custody agreement. While complying with agreement terms is a good way both to raise good kids and to stay out of legal trouble, you may need to seek a modification. If...
Should your children have a court-appointed attorney?
It is unfortunate, but many times in cases involving child custody, parents have a difficult time focusing on what is best for their children. It is easy to become a little selfish and think that your needs are what is best for your child. In some cases, one parent...
Can my ex withhold visitation?
A final divorce decree in California may signal the end of a marriage. However, when a couple has children, a relationship between the parents is not over. After divorce, some exes can move forward in a positive and supportive co-parenting manner. Others may remain...