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	<title>Library &#124; MyFamilyLaw.com &#187; Custody &amp; Visitation</title>
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	<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library</link>
	<description>Information and Laws Related to Divorce, Custody, Prenuptial Agreements, and other Family Law Issues</description>
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		<title>Modifying a Custody Order</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/modifying-a-custody-order/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/modifying-a-custody-order/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 01 Mar 2010 05:13:17 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>K. McKinney</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Children, Custody & Support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[changing custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody modification]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[modifying custody]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://myfamilylaw.com/library/?p=21368</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[After a divorce or paternity case has been resolved, the final judgment is generally non-modifiable. Two major exceptions exist to this general rule however. The family court retains jurisdiction to modify the child support order and the child custody order until the child reaches the age of majority or is otherwise emancipated. The court can [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/parental-alienation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Parental Alienation'>Parental Alienation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-how-can-i-have-my-child-support-order-modified/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: How Can I Have My Child Support Order Modified?'>How Can I Have My Child Support Order Modified?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-do-i-still-have-to-pay-child-support-while-the-kids-are-visiting-me/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Do I still have to pay child support while the kids are visiting me?'>Do I still have to pay child support while the kids are visiting me?</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>After a divorce or paternity case has been resolved, the final judgment is generally non-modifiable. Two major exceptions exist to this general rule however. The family court retains jurisdiction to <a title="Modify Child Support" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-how-can-i-have-my-child-support-order-modified/">modify the child support order</a> and the <a title="Child Custody" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/">child custody order</a> until the child reaches the age of majority or is otherwise <a title="Emancipation" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/emancipation/">emancipated</a>. The court can modify these orders when it finds that a modificaparetion is in the child&#8217;s best interests.</p>
<h3>Jurisdiction</h3>
<p>For every determination of child custody (both for original orders and subsequent modifications), the court must find that it meets the jurisdictional requirements of the Federal Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act (FPKPA) and the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (UCCJEA). Both of these federal statutes help determine the proper forum for custody disputes if there is more than one state with an interest in the litigation.</p>
<p>Generally, the state that issued the initial custody order continues to have jurisdiction over that order for modification purposes. However, another state&#8217;s court might be allowed to modify the original order if neither the child nor a parent have a continued significant connection to the original state (i.e., they&#8217;ve moved away) or that state&#8217;s forum is more convenient that the original state&#8217;s forum for litigation.</p>
<h3>Grounds For Modification Of Child Custody Orders</h3>
<p>As noted above, the family court can modify an original custody and visitation order if it is in the best interests of the child. However, most state statutes require that the petitioning parent prove that a significant change of circumstances has occurred since the issuance of the original order such that the original order is no longer in the child&#8217;s best interests.</p>
<p>This requirement acts as a gatekeeper, theoretically prohibiting parties and courts from multiple custody modifications in the face of possibly trivial issues and supporting custodial stability. The courts of appeals rule that any custody modification without a showing of significant change in circumstances would be an abuse of discretion.</p>
<p>Commonly cited changes in circumstance include parent relocation, custodial interference or frustration, age of child, parent employment schedule change and, unfortunately, allegations of lack of fitness to appropriately parent. In the event that the moving parent alleges a <a title="Threats to Children" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/threats-to-children/">threat to the child&#8217;s physical or emotional well-being</a>, the court may appoint a <a title="Guardian ad Litem" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/legal-guardianship/what-is-a-guardian-ad-litem/">guardian ad litem</a> to investigate and represent the child in the proceedings.</p>
<p>Once the moving parent proves a significant and continuing change in circumstances, the court must still decide what is in the best interest of the child. The court will consider what is best for the child&#8217;s health, safety and welfare with a preference for regular (and frequent) contact with both parents.</p>
<h3>Parental Relocation</h3>
<p>[<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/">main parental relocation article</a>]</p>
<p>If the non-custodial parent relocates to a distance which precludes the practical exercise of original parenting plan, he or she may ask the court to modify the parenting schedule to accomodate longer (though less frequent) visits. Mid-week overnights or even regular weekends may no longer be feasible if the non-custodial parent moves far enough away. The court may order increased spring or summer vacation time instead.</p>
<p>If the custodial parent decides to relocate, he or she must receive consent from the non-custodial parent or approval by the court. Either situation will likely warrant a modification of the custody and visitation order. The court will again consider increasing vacation time visitation and may even order the custodial parent to  bear the child&#8217;s travel costs. [<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/">read more...</a>]</p>
<h3>Custodial Interference</h3>
<p>[<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/">main custodial interference article</a>]</p>
<p>In some high-conflict cases, one parent may behave in such a manner towards the other that custody, visitation and communication with the child is severely impeded. This frustration of the other parent&#8217;s rights may provide adequate grounds for a change in custody. As noted above, the court gives preference to a parenting schedule which allows both parents regular and frequent contact with the child. From the court&#8217;s perspective, if one party denies the other those rights, it is ultimately the child who suffers. Therefore, it may be in the child&#8217;s best interest to modify the original custody order. [<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/">read more...</a>]</p>
<h3>Child&#8217;s Preference</h3>
<p>As children get older, they often offer their own opinion and preference as to which parent they might like to reside. In no state does the court allow the child to choose. The final determination of custody (original or modified) always lies with the court &#8211; based on the best interest of the child.</p>
<p>However, most states have rules which establish an age at which the court is required to consider the child&#8217;s preferences. In some states, that age is designated specifically. In others, the court must determine if the child is of sufficient age and capacity to form an intelligent opinion.</p>
<h3>Effect of Custody Modification on Child Support</h3>
<p>In some instances, a modification of custody and visitation will necessitate the <a title="Child Support Modification" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-how-can-i-have-my-child-support-order-modified/">modification of the child support order</a> as well. Clearly, if primary physical custody is changed from one parent to the other, the newly-designated custodial parent will now receive child support. If visitation is substantially increased or decreased, that change may require an adjustment to child support as well, depending on the child support calculations of each specific state.</p>


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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Child Custody Court Forms by State</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-forms/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-forms/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 03 Jan 2010 06:50:40 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jeremy</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Children, Custody & Support]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody forms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[forms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[links]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://myfamilylaw.com/library/?p=6534</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A state-by-state listing of child custody and visitation forms. Links to local government websites.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/virginia/links-resources/virginia-laws-links-and-resources/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Virginia Public Departments and Services'>Virginia Public Departments and Services</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/book-review-your-right-to-child-custody-visitation-and-support/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Book Review: Your Right to Child Custody, Visitation and Support'>Book Review: Your Right to Child Custody, Visitation and Support</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h3><strong>Alabama</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>The Alabama courts do not have online forms for child custody.ou</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Alaska</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Modifying Child Custody and Child Support Forms" href="http://www.state.ak.us/courts/shcmodify.htm#1" target="_blank">Modifying Child Custody and Child Support Forms</a> (Alaska Court System)
<ul>
<li><a title="Visitation Plan &amp; Child Support Worksheet" href="http://www.state.ak.us/courts/shc/visitplan.pdf" target="_blank">Visitation Plan &amp; Child Support Worksheet</a> &#8211; [PDF] (Alaska Court System)</li>
<li><a title="Model Parenting Agreement" href="http://www.state.ak.us/courts/forms/dr-475.pdf" target="_blank">Model       Parenting Agreement</a> [PDF] (Alaska Court System)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Custody Complaint Packet (Custody for Unmarried Parents)" href="http://www.state.ak.us/courts/forms.htm#dr-411" target="_blank">Custody Complaint Packet (Custody for Unmarried      Parents)</a> (Alaska Court System)</li>
<li><a title="Modifying Child Custody or Child Support Forms" href="http://www.state.ak.us/courts/shcmodify.htm#1" target="_blank">Modifying Child Custody or Child Support Forms</a> (Alaska Court System)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Arizona</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Model Parenting Time Plans for Parent/Child/Access" href="http://www.supreme.state.az.us/dr/Pdf/Parenting_Time_Plan_Final.pdf" target="_blank">Model Parenting Time Plans for Parent/Child/Access</a> [PDF] (Arizona Supreme Court) </li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Arkansas</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Relations Cover Sheet" href="http://courts.state.ar.us/forms/aoc_24_fdf_2.pdf" target="_blank">Domestic      Relations Cover Sheet</a> [PDF] (Arkansas Judiciary)
<ul>
<li><a title="Instructions" href="http://courts.state.ar.us/forms/aoc_24_instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Instructions</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Court Forms" href="http://courts.state.ar.us/courts/aoc_forms.html" target="_blank">Court Forms</a> (Arkansas Supreme Court)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>California</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Custody &amp; Visitation Forms" href="http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp/family/custody/custforms.htm" target="_blank">Custody &amp; Visitation Forms</a> (California      Courts)</li>
<li><a title="Online Guardianship forms filing" href="http://www.ezlegalfile.com/go.jsp?act=actPrepareCaseSelect&amp;tmstp=1115079463596&amp;fld=fldHomeAppName&amp;srcde=dteAppsList&amp;source=scrHome&amp;form=frmAppsList&amp;ind=27&amp;screenCode=HOME&amp;id=21071" target="_blank">Online Guardianship forms filing</a> (Superior      Court of California)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Colorado</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Allocation of Parental Responsibilities" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/apr.htm" target="_blank">Allocation of Parental Responsibilities</a> (Colorado Judicial Branch)
<ul>
<li>Parenting Plan &#8211; <a title="MS Word" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/jdf1113.doc" target="_blank">MS Word</a> | <a title="PDF" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/jdf1113.pdf" target="_blank">PDF</a></li>
<li>Motion to Modify Parenting Time &#8211; <a title="MS Word" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/jdf1406.doc" target="_blank">MS Word</a> | <a title="PDF" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/jdf1406.pdf" target="_blank">PDF</a> </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Grandparent Visitation" href="http://www.courts.state.co.us/chs/court/forms/domestic/grandparentvisitation.htm" target="_blank">Grandparent      Visitation</a> (Colorado Judicial Branch)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Connecticut</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Custody/Visitation Application" href="http://www.jud2.state.ct.us/webforms/forms/fm161.pdf" target="_blank">Custody/Visitation      Application</a> [PDF] (Connecticut Judicial Branch)</li>
<li><a title="Motion for Modification" href="http://www.jud2.state.ct.us/webforms/forms/fm174.pdf" target="_blank">Motion for      Modification</a> [PDF] (Connecticut Judicial Branch)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Delaware</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Custody/Visitation Forms" href="http://courts.state.de.us/forms/%285muhis55v24rgkugekdojp55%29/list.aspx?sec=Forms&amp;ag=All%20Courts&amp;sub=Custody/Visitation" target="_blank">Custody/Visitation      Forms</a> (Delaware State Courts)
<ul>
<li><a title="Petition for Custody" href="http://courts.state.de.us/forms/download.aspx?id=205" target="_blank">Petition       for Custody</a> [PDF] (Delaware State Courts)</li>
<li><a title="Petition for Visitation" href="http://courts.state.de.us/forms/download.aspx?id=207" target="_blank">Petition       for Visitation</a> [PDF] (Delaware State Courts)</li>
<li><a title="Petition For Guardianship of a Minor" href="http://courts.state.de.us/forms/download.aspx?ID=431" target="_blank">Petition For Guardianship of a Minor</a> [PDF]       (Delaware State Courts)</li>
<li><a title="Consent To Termination and Transfer of Parental Rights" href="http://courts.state.de.us/forms/download.aspx?ID=11298" target="_blank">Consent To Termination and Transfer of Parental Rights</a> [PDF] (Delaware State Courts)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>District of Columbia</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Complaint for Custody and/or Access to Children" href="http://www.dcbar.org/for_the_public/legal_information/family/family_court_forms/custody/complaint_for_custody_and_or_access_to_children.pdf" target="_blank">Complaint for Custody and/or Access to Children</a> [PDF] (D.C. Bar Association)</li>
<li><a title="Motion to Modify Custody and/or Access to Children" href="http://www.dcbar.org/for_the_public/legal_information/family/family_court_forms/custody/motion_to_modify_custody_and_or_access_to_children.pdf" target="_blank">Motion to Modify Custody and/or Access to Children</a> [PDF] (D.C. Bar Association)</li>
<li><a title="Motion for Temporary Custody and/or Access to Children" href="http://www.dcbar.org/for_the_public/legal_information/family/family_court_forms/custody/motion_for_temporary_custody_and_or_access_to_children.pdf" target="_blank">Motion for Temporary Custody and/or Access to Children</a> [PDF] (D.C. Bar Association)</li>
<li><a title="Sample Parenting Plan" href="http://www.dcbar.org/for_the_public/legal_information/family/family_court_forms/custody/parenting_plan.pdf" target="_blank">Sample      Parenting Plan</a> [PDF] (D.C. Bar Association)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Florida</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Law Financial Affidavit" href="http://www.flcourts.org/gen_public/family/forms_rules/902c.pdf" target="_blank">Family Law Financial Affidavit</a> [PDF]      (Florida Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form)" href="http://www.flcourts.org/gen_public/family/forms_rules/902b.pdf" target="_blank">Family Law Financial Affidavit (Short Form)</a> [PDF] (Florida Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Affidavit" href="http://www.flcourts.org/gen_public/family/forms_rules/902d.pdf" target="_blank">Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement      Affidavit</a> [PDF] (Florida Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Supplemental Petition to Modify Custody or Visitation and Other Relief" href="http://www.flcourts.org/gen_public/family/forms_rules/905a.pdf" target="_blank">Supplemental Petition to Modify Custody or Visitation      and Other Relief</a> [PDF] (Florida Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Petition for Grandparent Visitation" href="http://www.flcourts.org/gen_public/family/forms_rules/984.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Grandparent Visitation</a> [PDF]      (Florida Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Department of Children and Family Services Release Form" href="http://www.jud6.org/Probate/dept%20childfam.pdf" target="_blank">Department of Children and Family Services Release Form</a> [PDF] (Sixth Judicial Circuit of Florida)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Georgia</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Visitation Schedule" href="http://www.co.dekalb.ga.us/dekalbflic/pdf/visitation.pdf" target="_blank">Visitation      Schedule</a> [PDF] (DeKalb County Superior Court)</li>
<li><a title="Modification of Visitation Packet" href="http://www.fultoncourt.org/family/packets.php#modvis" target="_blank">Modification      of Visitation Packet</a> (Fulton County Superior Court Family      Division)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Hawaii</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Custody/Visitation Statement" href="http://www.state.hi.us/jud/Oahu/Family/Custody_Visit_Stmt.pdf" target="_blank">Custody/Visitation Statement</a> [PDF] (State of      Hawaii Judiciary)</li>
<li><a title="Worksheet for Joint Custody/Extensive Visitation (with Child Support Guidelines Worksheet)" href="http://www.state.hi.us/jud/Oahu/Family/2004csg/2004csgw_b.pdf" target="_blank">Worksheet for Joint Custody/Extensive Visitation (with      Child Support Guidelines Worksheet)</a> [PDF] (State of Hawaii      Judiciary)</li>
<li><a title="Guardianship Pro-Se Packet" href="http://www.state.hi.us/jud/Oahu/Family/Gdnshp-Minor-ProSePacketdo.pdf" target="_blank">Guardianship Pro-Se Packet</a> [PDF] (State of Hawaii      Judiciary)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Idaho</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Instructions - Filing for Custody, Visitation &amp; Support" href="http://www2.state.id.us/cao/documents/docs304/CAO%20Inst%203A%20Filing%20for%20Custody.pdf" target="_blank">Instructions &#8211; Filing for Custody, Visitation &amp;      Support</a> [PDF] (Idaho Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan Agreement" href="http://www2.state.id.us/cao/documents/docs304/CAO%206-3%20Parenting%20Plan%20Agreement.pdf" target="_blank">Parenting      Plan Agreement</a> [PDF] (Idaho Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan Agreement" href="http://www.the3rdjudicialdistrict.com/ppagreement.htm" target="_blank">Parenting      Plan Agreement</a> (3rd Judicial District)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Illinois</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act" href="http://198.173.15.31/forms/pdf_files/CCDR0502.pdf" target="_blank">Declaration Under Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction      Act</a> [PDF] (Cook County Circuit Court)</li>
<li><a title="Request a Visitation Order" href="http://www.law.siu.edu/selfhelp/info/childsupport/getvisup.pdf" target="_blank">Request a Visitation Order</a> [PDF] (Southern Illinois      University School of Law)</li>
<li><a title="Enforce a Visitation Order" href="http://www.law.siu.edu/selfhelp/info/childsupport/enfvisup.pdf" target="_blank">Enforce a Visitation Order</a> [PDF] (Southern Illinois      University School of Law)</li>
<li><a title="Modify a Visitation Order" href="http://www.law.siu.edu/selfhelp/info/childsupport/modvisup.pdf" target="_blank">Modify      a Visitation Order</a> [PDF] (Southern Illinois University School      of Law)</li>
<li><a title="Modify Custody Order" href="http://www.law.siu.edu/selfhelp/info/childsupport/Custody%20Change%20forms.pdf" target="_blank">Modify      Custody Order</a> [PDF] (Southern Illinois University School of      Law)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Indiana</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms Packages" href="http://www.in.gov/judiciary/selfservice/forms.html" target="_blank">Family Court      Forms Packages</a> (Indiana Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Forms for Citizens" href="http://www.in.gov/judiciary/forms/publicindex.html" target="_blank">Forms for Citizens</a> (Indiana Judiciary)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Iowa</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>The Iowa courts do not have online forms for child custody.</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Kansas</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Court Forms" href="http://www.shawneecourt.org/forms/forms.htm" target="_blank">Court Forms</a> (Shawnee County District Court)
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Forms Packet" href="http://www.shawneecourt.org/forms/domestic.pdf" target="_blank">Domestic Forms       Packet</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Court Forms" href="http://www.kscourts.org/dstcts/4forms.htm" target="_blank">Court Forms</a> (4th Judicial District)
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan" href="http://www.kscourts.org/dstcts/4plan.pdf" target="_blank">Parenting       Plan</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Motion to Enforce Visitation/Parenting Time" href="http://www.kscourts.org/dstcts/4mevform.pdf" target="_blank">Motion to Enforce Visitation/Parenting Time</a> [PDF] </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="District Court Forms" href="http://www.douglas-county.com/district_court/dc_formsbycategory.aspx" target="_blank">District      Court Forms</a> (Douglas County)
<ul>
<li><a title="Temporary or Permanent Parenting Plan" href="http://www.douglas-county.com/district_court/dcl/docs/pdf/temp_perm_parenting_plan.pdf" target="_blank">Temporary or Permanent Parenting Plan</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Motion to Appear and Show Cause for Failure to Comply with Visitation Order" href="http://www.douglas-county.com/district_court/dct/docs/pdf/otasc.pdf" target="_blank">Motion to Appear and Show Cause for Failure to Comply       with Visitation Order</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Kentucky</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Mediation and Family Court Forms" href="http://www.kycourts.net/forms/" target="_blank">Mediation      and Family Court Forms</a> (Kentucky Court of Justice)
<ul>
<li><a title="Petition for Appointment of Guardian/Conservator for Minor" href="http://www.kycourts.net/forms/Original%20Forms/852.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Appointment of Guardian/Conservator for       Minor</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Petition for Appointment as Guardian/Conservator for Minor" href="http://www.kycourts.net/forms/Original%20Forms/853.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Appointment as Guardian/Conservator for       Minor</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Louisiana</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.familycourt.org/forms.html" target="_blank">Family Court Forms</a> (E. Baton Rouge)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Maine</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="CV-063 Request for Mediation" href="http://www.ptla.org/ptlasite/forms/forms/cv-063.pdf" target="_blank">CV-063      Request for Mediation</a> [PDF] (Pine Tree Legal Assistance/Maine      Judicial Branch )</li>
<li><a title="Unmarried Parents' Rights and Responsibilities Court Forms" href="http://www.ptla.org/ptlasite/forms/prr.htm" target="_blank">Unmarried Parents&#8217; Rights and Responsibilities Court      Forms</a> (Pine Tree Legal Assistance/Maine Judicial Branch )</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Maryland</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Custody/Visitation packets" href="http://www.courts.state.md.us/family/forms/custody-vis.html" target="_blank">Custody/Visitation packets</a> (Maryland Judiciary)
<ul>
<li><a title="Visitation with Children" href="http://www.courts.state.md.us/family/forms/visit.pdf" target="_blank">Visitation       with Children</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Changing Custody or Visitation" href="http://www.courts.state.md.us/family/forms/custodychange.pdf" target="_blank">Changing Custody or Visitation</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Massachusetts</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Child Custody Forms" href="http://www.lawlib.state.ma.us/forms.html#custody" target="_blank">Child Custody Forms</a> (Massachusetts Trial Court Law Libraries)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Michigan</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Relations Forms" href="http://courts.michigan.gov/scao/courtforms/domesticrelations/drindex.htm" target="_blank">Domestic      Relations Forms</a> (Michigan State Court Administrative Office)
<ul>
<li><a title="Michigan Parenting Time Guideline" href="http://www.courts.michigan.gov/scao/resources/publications/manuals/focb/pt_gdlns.pdf" target="_blank">Michigan Parenting Time Guideline</a> [PDF]       (State Court Admin. Office)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Minnesota</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.courts.state.mn.us/districts/fourth/General/onlineforms.htm#family" target="_blank">Family      Court Forms</a> (Fourth Judicial District)</li>
<li><a title="Court Forms" href="http://www.courts.state.mn.us/forms/Default.aspx?pageID=138&amp;activeLink=138" target="_blank">Court Forms</a> (Minnesota Judicial Branch) </li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Mississippi</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Visitation Guidelines" href="http://15thchancerydistrictms.org/images/visitation%20guidelines.pdf" target="_blank">Visitation      Guidelines</a> [PDF] (Fifteenth Chancery Court District)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Missouri</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Access (Custody/Visitation) Forms" href="http://www.courts.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=700" target="_blank">Family Access (Custody/Visitation) Forms</a> (Missouri Judiciary)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Montana</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plans" href="http://www.lawlibrary.state.mt.us/dscgi/ds.py/View/Collection-7399" target="_blank">Parenting      Plans</a> (State Law Library of Montana)</li>
<li><a title="Child and Family Law Forms" href="http://www.imt.net/%7Echoward/prod01.htm" target="_blank">Child and Family Law Forms</a> (State Bar of Montana)
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan 1" href="http://www.imt.net/%7Echoward/pp1.htm" target="_blank">Parenting       Plan 1</a> (lengthy)</li>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan 2" href="http://www.imt.net/%7Echoward/pp2.htm" target="_blank">Parenting       Plan 2</a> (somewhat shorter form)</li>
<li><a title="Motion to Modify Parenting Plan" href="http://www.imt.net/%7Echoward/motionto.htm" target="_blank">Motion to Modify Parenting Plan</a></li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Nebraska</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://court.nol.org/forms/">Nebraska      Court Forms</a> (Nebraska Supreme Court)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Nevada</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Petition to Establish Custody and Visitation" href="http://www.washoecourts.com/FCF/Forms/Petition%20to%20Establish%20Custody%20and%20Visitation%20Packet%20%28D8%29.pdf" target="_blank">Petition to Establish Custody and Visitation</a> [PDF] (Second Judicial District Court)</li>
<li><a title="Petition to Establish Visitation Only" href="http://www.washoecourts.com/FCF/Forms/Petition%20to%20Establish%20Visitation%20Only%20%28D21%29.pdf" target="_blank">Petition to Establish Visitation Only</a> [PDF]      (Second Judicial District Court)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>New Hampshire</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Law Forms" href="http://www.courts.state.nh.us/fdpp/forms/index.htm" target="_blank">Family Law Forms</a> (New Hampshire Superior Court)
<ul>
<li><a title="Petition for Custody and Support" href="http://www.courts.state.nh.us/superior/forms/petitioncustodysupport.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Custody and Support</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>New Jersey</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="How To Ask The Court To Change Or Enforce An Order In Your Case" href="http://www.judiciary.state.nj.us/prose/infmpjm.pdf" target="_blank">How To Ask The Court To Change Or Enforce An Order In      Your Case</a> [PDF] (New Jersey Judiciary)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>New Mexico</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan And Child Support Obligation" href="http://www.supremecourt.nm.org/supctforms/dom-rel/VIEW/4a-313.html" target="_blank">Parenting Plan And Child Support Obligation</a> (New Mexico Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Nomination of Kinship Guardian" href="http://www.supremecourt.nm.org/supctforms/dc-civil/VIEW/4-983.html" target="_blank">Nomination of Kinship Guardian</a> (New Mexico      Supreme Court)</li>
<li><a title="Petition for Grandparent Visitation" href="http://firstdistrictcourt.com/forms/pdf/petition%20for%20grandparent%20visitation.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Grandparent Visitation</a> [PDF]      (First Judicial District Court)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>New York</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.courts.state.ny.us/forms" target="_blank">Family      Court Forms</a> (New York Courts)</li>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan" href="http://www.courts.state.ny.us/forms/matrimonial/Parenting-Plan-Form.pdf" target="_blank">Parenting      Plan</a> [PDF] (Supreme Court of the State of New York)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>North Carolina</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="SelfServe Center Forms" href="http://www.aoc.state.nc.us/www/public/courts/meck/disk01/custody.html" target="_blank">SelfServe      Center Forms</a> (26th Judicial District)
<ul>
<li><a title="Introduction to Custody, Visitation &amp; Support" href="http://www.aoc.state.nc.us/www/public/courts/meck/SelfServe/documents/CVS/cvsintro.pdf" target="_blank">Introduction to Custody, Visitation &amp; Support</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Custody or Visitation Instructions" href="http://www.aoc.state.nc.us/www/public/courts/meck/SelfServe/documents/CVS/cusinstr.pdf" target="_blank">Custody or Visitation Instructions</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Custody or Visitation Flowchart" href="http://www.aoc.state.nc.us/www/public/courts/meck/SelfServe/documents/CVS/cusflow.pdf" target="_blank">Custody or Visitation Flowchart</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Custody, Visitation and Support Complaint" href="http://www.aoc.state.nc.us/www/public/courts/meck/SelfServe/documents/CVS/comp2002.pdf" target="_blank">Custody, Visitation and Support Complaint</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>North Dakota</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Self Represented Visitation Assistance Forms" href="http://www.ndcourts.com/court/forms/visitation/forms.htm" target="_blank">Self Represented Visitation Assistance Forms</a> (North Dakota Supreme Court)
<ul>
<li><a title="Instructions" href="http://www.ndcourts.com/court/forms/visitation/visitation.htm" target="_blank">Instructions</a></li>
<li><a title="Motion, Brief and Notice of Motion for Visitation Assistance" href="http://www.ndcourts.com/court/forms/visitation/VisitationForm1.pdf" target="_blank">Motion, Brief and Notice of Motion for Visitation       Assistance</a> [PDF] (North Dakota Supreme Court)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Ohio</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Relations Court Forms" href="http://www.domesticcourt.org/default.asp?Section=5" target="_blank">Domestic      Relations Court Forms</a> (Clermont County)
<ul>
<li><a title="Shared Parenting Plan" href="http://www.domesticcourt.org/Resources/form/602_Shared_Parenting_Plan.pdf" target="_blank">Shared       Parenting Plan</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Oklahoma</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Forms" href="http://www.oscn.net/static/forms/start.asp" target="_blank">Forms</a> (Oklahoma Supreme Court Network):
<ul>
<li><a title="Guardianship Review Form" href="http://www.oscn.net/Forms/AOC_Forms/MicrosoftWord/aocform.29.doc" target="_blank">Guardianship       Review Form</a> [MS DOC]</li>
<li><a title="Plan for the Care of Ward" href="http://www.oscn.net/Forms/AOC_Forms/MicrosoftWord/aocform.31.doc" target="_blank">Plan for the Care of Ward</a> [MS DOC]</li>
<li><a title="Motion for Inclusion in Child Visitation Registry" href="http://www.oscn.net/Forms/AOC_Forms/MicrosoftWord/aocform.57.doc" target="_blank">Motion for Inclusion in Child Visitation Registry</a> [MS DOC]</li>
<li><a title="Motion for Enforcement of Non-Custodial Parent Visitation Rights" href="http://www.oscn.net/Forms/AOC_Forms/MicrosoftWord/VISITATION%20ORDER10.14.doc" target="_blank">Motion for Enforcement of Non-Custodial Parent       Visitation Rights</a> [MS DOC]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Oregon</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Time/Plan Enforcement" href="http://www.ojd.state.or.us/osca/cpsd/courtimprovement/familylaw/flpacket5.htm#A" target="_blank">Parenting Time/Plan Enforcement</a> (Office of      the Oregon State Court Administrator )</li>
<li><a title="Custody Enforcement" href="http://www.ojd.state.or.us/osca/cpsd/courtimprovement/familylaw/flpacket5.htm#B" target="_blank">Custody      Enforcement</a> (Office of the Oregon State Court Administrator ) </li>
<li><a title="Registration of Out-of-State Child Custody and Parenting Time Judgments " href="http://www.ojd.state.or.us/osca/cpsd/courtimprovement/familylaw/flpacket5.htm#C" target="_blank">Registration of Out-of-State Child Custody and      Parenting Time Judgments </a>(Office of the Oregon State Court      Administrator )</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Pennsylvania</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Civil Forms" href="http://www.warrenforestcourt.org/forms.html" target="_blank">Civil Forms</a> (Warren County)
<ul>
<li><a title="Complaint for Custody, Partial Custody or Visitation" href="http://www.warrenforestcourt.org/downloads/warren/custody.pdf" target="_blank">Complaint for Custody, Partial Custody or Visitation</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Petition to Modify Custody, Partial Custody or Visitation" href="http://www.warrenforestcourt.org/downloads/warren/custmod.pdf" target="_blank">Petition to Modify Custody, Partial Custody or       Visitation</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.alleghenycourts.us/forms/default.asp?action=viewfolder&amp;path=/family" target="_blank">Family      Court Forms</a> (Fifth Judicial District of Pennsylvania)
<ul>
<li><a title="Complaint for Primary Custody (II-1)" href="http://www.alleghenycourts.us/downloads/family/adult%20section/II-1_Complaint_for_Primary_Custody.pdf" target="_blank">Complaint for Primary Custody (II-1)</a> [PDF] </li>
<li><a title="Complaint for Shared Custody (II-2)" href="http://www.alleghenycourts.us/downloads/family/adult%20section/II-2_Complaint_for_Shared_Custody.pdf" target="_blank">Complaint for Shared Custody (II-2)</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Rhode Island</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.courts.state.ri.us/family/forms.htm" target="_blank">Family      Court Forms</a> (Judiciary of Rhode Island)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>South Carolina</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Non-Custodial Parent's Application for Child Support Services" href="http://www.state.sc.us/dss/forms/files/27103.pdf" target="_blank">Non-Custodial Parent&#8217;s Application for Child Support      Services</a> [PDF] (South Carolina Department of Social Services)</li>
<li><a title="Affidavit for Citation for Contempt of Court (Visitation - For use by Custodial Parent)" href="http://www.judicial.state.sc.us/forms/pdf/SCCA470.pdf" target="_blank">Affidavit for Citation for Contempt of Court      (Visitation &#8211; For use by Custodial Parent)</a> [PDF] (South      Carolina Judicial Department)</li>
<li><a title="Affidavit for Citation for Contempt of Court (Visitation - For use by Non-Custodial Parent)" href="http://www.judicial.state.sc.us/forms/pdf/SCCA471.pdf" target="_blank">Affidavit for Citation for Contempt of Court      (Visitation &#8211; For use by Non-Custodial Parent)</a> [PDF] (South      Carolina Judicial Department)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>South Dakota</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.sdjudicial.com/index.asp?title=sharing_parental_guidelines&amp;category=procedures&amp;nav=91" target="_blank">Visitation Guidelines</a> (South Dakota Unified Judicial System)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Tennessee</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Temporary Parenting Plan" href="http://co4.shelbycountytn.gov/court_clerks/chancery_court/Forms/Temporary_Parenting_Plan.pdf" target="_blank">Temporary      Parenting Plan</a> [PDF] (Shelby County Chancery Court)
<ul>
<li><a title="Temporary Parenting Plan" href="http://www.tba.org/news/parenting/TempPPlan.doc" target="_blank">Temporary       Parenting Plan</a> [MS DOC] (Tennessee Bar Association)</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li><a title="Permanent Parenting Plan" href="http://co4.shelbycountytn.gov/court_clerks/chancery_court/Forms/Permanent_Parenting_Plan.pdf" target="_blank">Permanent      Parenting Plan</a> [PDF] (Shelby County Chancery Court)
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan" href="http://www.tba.org/news/parenting/PermPPlan.doc" target="_blank">Parenting Plan</a> [MS DOC] (Tennessee Bar Association)</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Texas</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Relations Forms" href="http://www.co.travis.tx.us/records_communication/law_library/forms.asp" target="_blank">Domestic Relations Forms</a> (Travis County Law Library)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Utah</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Utah State Court Forms" href="http://www.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/" target="_blank">Utah      State Court Forms</a> (Utah State Courts)
<ul>
<li><a title="Split Custody Worksheet and Instructions" href="http://www.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/ch_support/split_custody.pdf" target="_blank">Split Custody Worksheet and Instructions</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Sole Custody Worksheet and Instructions" href="http://www.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/ch_support/sole_custody.pdf" target="_blank">Sole Custody Worksheet and Instructions</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Joint Physical Custody Worksheet and Instructions" href="http://www.utcourts.gov/resources/forms/ch_support/joint_custody.pdf" target="_blank">Joint Physical Custody Worksheet and Instructions</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Vermont</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Affidavit of Child Custody" href="http://www.vermontjudiciary.org/library/PDF/pdfforms/Fam/form834.pdf" target="_blank">Affidavit of Child Custody</a> [PDF] (Vermont Judiciary)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Virginia</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Pro Se Divorce Brochure" href="http://www.co.fairfax.va.us/courts/circuit/pdf/CCR-H-53.pdf" target="_blank">Pro      Se Divorce Brochure</a> [PDF] (Circuit Court of Fairfax County)
<ul>
<li><a title="Agreement to Mediate" href="http://www.courts.state.va.us/drs/forms/agreement_mediate.pdf" target="_blank">Agreement       to Mediate</a> [PDF] (Virginia Judiciary) </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Washington</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Domestic Relations Forms" href="http://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/index.cfm?fa=forms.search" target="_blank">Domestic      Relations Forms</a> (Washington Courts)
<ul>
<li><a title="Parenting Plan" href="http://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/pdf/DR1_0400.pdf" target="_blank">Parenting Plan</a> [PDF]</li>
<li><a title="Petition for Modification/Adjustment of Custody Decree/Parenting Plan/Residential Schedule" href="http://www.courts.wa.gov/forms/pdf/DR7_0100.pdf" target="_blank">Petition for Modification/Adjustment of Custody       Decree/Parenting Plan/Residential Schedule</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>West Virginia</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Forms" href="http://www.state.wv.us/wvsca/rules/FamilyCourt/index.htm" target="_blank">Family      Court Forms</a> (West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals)
<ul>
<li><a title="Family Court Parenting Plan" href="http://www.state.wv.us/wvsca/rules/FamilyCourt/parenting.pdf" target="_blank">Family Court Parenting Plan</a> | <a title="Parenting Plan Instructions" href="http://www.state.wv.us/wvsca/rules/FamilyCourt/Instructions.pdf" target="_blank">Parenting Plan Instructions</a> [PDF]</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Wisconsin</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Proposed Parenting Plan" href="http://courtselfhelp.waukeshacounty.gov/documents/3108F.pdf" target="_blank">Proposed      Parenting Plan</a> [PDF] (Waukesha County)</li>
<li><a title="Visitation Rights of Other Persons" href="http://courtselfhelp.waukeshacounty.gov/documents/P3111F.pdf" target="_blank">Visitation Rights of Other Persons</a> [PDF]      (Waukesha County)</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong>Wyoming</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><a title="Child Custody and Modification packet" href="http://www.courts.state.wy.us/Pro%20Se%20Divorce%20Forms/CCMod/CCModEntire.pdf" target="_blank">Child Custody and Modification packet</a> [PDF]      (Supreme Court of the State of Wyoming) </li>
</ul>
<p><br class="spacer_" /></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/virginia/links-resources/virginia-laws-links-and-resources/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Virginia Public Departments and Services'>Virginia Public Departments and Services</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/book-review-your-right-to-child-custody-visitation-and-support/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Book Review: Your Right to Child Custody, Visitation and Support'>Book Review: Your Right to Child Custody, Visitation and Support</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Rights of Grandparents</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/the-rights-of-grandparents/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/the-rights-of-grandparents/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 06:33:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[caretaker rights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grandparent rights]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[grandparents visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[troxel v granville]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://myfamilylaw.com/library/?p=5946</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What You Need to Know About Grandparent and Caretaker Visitation
If you are a grandparent or caretaker of a child, you may be faced with a challenge to your right to see that child at some time in the future. This often happens when the child&#8217;s parents divorce or when one parent dies and the grandparents [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/same-sex-parenting/the-rights-of-the-second-parent/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Rights of the Second Parent'>The Rights of the Second Parent</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/book-review-unmarried-parents-rights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Book Review: Unmarried Parents’ Rights'>Book Review: Unmarried Parents’ Rights</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/marriage/legal-rights-and-benefits-of-marriage/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Legal Rights And Benefits of Marriage'>Legal Rights And Benefits of Marriage</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>What You Need to Know About Grandparent and Caretaker Visitation</h2>
<p>If you are a grandparent or caretaker of a <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>child</strong></a>, you may be faced with a challenge to your right to see that child at some time in the future. This often happens when the child&#8217;s parents divorce or when one parent dies and the grandparents and caretakers are sometimes left out of the <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a> loop.</p>
<p>However, all states have some sort of grandparent visitation statute to provide legitimate parties a means of claiming a legal right to visitation with the child in question.</p>
<p>These statutes are restrictive in some states, providing only for grandparents and not for other caretakers such as stepparents and foster parents. In addition, some statutes limit court-ordered access to situations when the nuclear family unit has been dissolved, such as in the case of <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Divorce-Separation"><strong>divorce</strong></a> or death.</p>
<p>Other states, however, offer more permissive statutes that include secondary caretakers in addition to grandparents and also eliminate the requirement of the dissolution of the family unit before a claim can be made.</p>
<p>In all cases, the &#8220;best interests of the child&#8221; is the standard used to determine whether such visitation should be granted.</p>
<p>This type of so-called &#8220;third party&#8221; visitation has been challenged by parents claiming that it violates their natural right to raise their child as they see fit.</p>
<p>In 2000, the U.S. Supreme Court considered a Washington case called <em>Troxel v. Granville</em>, 530 U.S. 57 (2000).  In that case, the grandparents (parents of the deceased father of the children) sued to have certain visitation rights &#8211; even though the mother had not denied visitation, instead suggesting slightly less visitation time.  The U.S. Supreme Court found that the Washington visitation statute unconstitutionally infringed on parents&#8217; fundamental right to rear their children as they see fit.  The justices acknowledged that grandparent visitation could be important to a child but decided that the language of the Washington statute was just too broad and that some deference has to be given to the child-rearing decisions of a fit parent.</p>
<p>Following the <em>Troxel</em> case and state-level litigation that followed, several states had to revise their grandparent visitation statutes to make sure they were enforceable.</p>
<p>In order to make a claim for grandparent or caretaker visition, you will need to petition the family court and request a hearing. The court would then consider whether or not your request is in the best interests of the child after considering all of the circumstances and evidence.</p>
<p>To determine whether or not you can make such a claim, you need to consult an <strong><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/yp/guide/divorce_lawyers">attorney</a></strong> and/or your state&#8217;s laws regarding grandparent and caretaker visitation.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/same-sex-parenting/the-rights-of-the-second-parent/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Rights of the Second Parent'>The Rights of the Second Parent</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/book-review-unmarried-parents-rights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Book Review: Unmarried Parents’ Rights'>Book Review: Unmarried Parents’ Rights</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/marriage/legal-rights-and-benefits-of-marriage/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Legal Rights And Benefits of Marriage'>Legal Rights And Benefits of Marriage</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>The Hague Convention</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/the-hague-convention/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/the-hague-convention/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:09:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child abduction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[divorce]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hague convention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[international]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kidnapping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3878</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[What You Need To Know About International Custody Disputes.


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custodial Interference'>Custodial Interference</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/financial-property/taxes-and-divorce/faq-can-i-claim-my-child-as-a-dependent-now-that-im-divorced-or-separated/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Can I Claim My Child as a Dependent Now That I&#39;m Divorced or Separated?'>Can I Claim My Child as a Dependent Now That I&#39;m Divorced or Separated?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?'>What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>What You Need To Know About International Custody Disputes</h2>
<p>Even despite the most stringent orders, many <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>parents</strong></a> still face the frustrating and frightening experience of their <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>children</strong></a> being kidnapped by an ex-spouse. Such a situation becomes even more dismaying when that spouse takes the child out of the country, creating a judicial nightmare in securing the child’s return.</p>
<p>To address the rising number of international child abductions, several countries united together and signed a treaty known as <em>The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction</em>.</p>
<p>The Hague Convention basically provides a venue for one parent to solicit the return of their child when the child has been wrongfully taken out of the country. Under this treaty, each “contracting state” has set up a Central Authority (or command post) that acts as the contact point for other countries seeking relief. Once an application has been made from the child’s home country (usually by the complaining parent), the Central Authority in the suspected country must do everything in its power to determine the whereabouts of the child and secure his voluntary return.</p>
<p>This treaty can be enacted even if there is no<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>custody</strong></a> order in effect. A cause of action may be brought as long as:</p>
<ul>
<li>The petitioning parent had custody of the child (<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/Types-of-Custody"><strong>sole</strong> <strong>or</strong> <strong>joint</strong></a> ) either by a custody order or operation of the law, known as du jure. This means that the petitioning parent had been acting in a custodial manner or that custody was assumed and agreed to in practice;</li>
<li>The child was habitually a resident of the country from where he was abducted; and</li>
<li>At the time of the wrongful removal, the petitioning parent was exercising his or her custodial rights.</li>
</ul>
<p>The Hague Convention provides some defenses to such a petition including the claim that the petitioning parent knew the child’s whereabouts and did not act for more than a year. In addition, the court may refuse to return the child if the petitioning parent was not exercising his or her custodial rights voluntarily or if returning the child would cause<strong><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Threats-to-Children">physical or emotional harm</a></strong> to the child. And if the child has reached an age of reasonable maturity, the child’s documented desire to stay in the new country can also be enough to have the petition for return denied.</p>
<p>These are what is known as “affirmative defenses”, meaning that it is the responsibility of the abducting parent to prove their claim of defense.</p>
<p>The Hague Convention only works when both the residence country and the country to which the child was taken have agreed to the treaty. It can also not be used on children that are 16 years of age or older.</p>
<p>This treaty is not designed to settle custody disputes but rather to keep the dispute in the residence country where both parents have a opportunity to exercise their custodial rights.</p>
<p>To learn more about whether the Hague Convention applies for you, and how to enact it, contact a <a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/yp/guide/divorce_lawyers"><strong>Family Law Attorney</strong></a> in your area.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custodial Interference'>Custodial Interference</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/financial-property/taxes-and-divorce/faq-can-i-claim-my-child-as-a-dependent-now-that-im-divorced-or-separated/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Can I Claim My Child as a Dependent Now That I&#39;m Divorced or Separated?'>Can I Claim My Child as a Dependent Now That I&#39;m Divorced or Separated?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?'>What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Custodial Interference</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:51:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custodial interference]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physical custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[Obstruction of a parent's rightful custody of a child. What does custodial interference mean? How do you bring or defend against charges?


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?'>What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/parental-alienation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Parental Alienation'>Parental Alienation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Obstructing a Parent&#8217;s Rightful Child Custody</h2>
<p>Custodial interference (also called custody interference) refers to the taking or keeping of a <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>child</strong></a> from the custodial parent with the intent to interfere with that parent&#8217;s rightful <strong><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/Types-of-Custody">physical custody</a></strong>.</p>
<p>In other words, when a non-custodial parent does not return his or her child to the custodial parent from a scheduled <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a>, or when the custodial parent refuses to allow visitation with the non-custodial parent in violation of the court&#8217;s order. It can also occur when the parents have <strong><a title="Types of Custody" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/">joint physical custody</a></strong> &#8211; in this case, even though the parent taking the child has physical custody rights to the child, he or she is still interfering with the other parent&#8217;s scheduled custodial rights.</p>
<h2>Charging a Parent with Custodial Interference</h2>
<p>Custodial interference is a crime in most states and can be punishable by jail time. Depending on your state&#8217;s laws, different circumstances can bring varying charges and different penalties. For example, some states treat custodial interference as a misdemeanor unless the child was removed out of state. In that case, the charge becomes a felony. Other states have additional penal provisions for taking the child <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/The-Hague-Convention"><strong>out of the country</strong></a>.  In certain situations, custodial interference can escalate to a state or federal charge of parental kidnapping.</p>
<h2>Defending Against Charges</h2>
<p>Many states also allow certain defenses to custodial interference. Imminent harm, for example, is a commonly accepted defense. In this instance, the parent removing the child claims to have interfered with normal custody rules because he or she fears for the child&#8217;s safety. Other defenses can include mutual consent and the belief that, if he or she did not take the child, the other parent would remove the child from the court&#8217;s jurisdiction (i.e. out of state or out of the country).  Failure to receive court-ordered <strong><a title="Child Support" href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Child-Support">child support</a></strong> is <em>not </em>usually a valid defense against a custodial interference charge.</p>
<p>Some states also recognize the child&#8217;s wishes, typically when the child is at least 14 years of age and may waive the charge of custodial interference if the child states that he or she did not return to the other parent on their own accord.</p>
<p>Still other states will not apply the interference charge if the child is sixteen years of age or older and there are yet other states that will not file charges if the child is returned before the arrest warrant is issued.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?'>What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/parental-alienation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Parental Alienation'>Parental Alienation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:46:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[divorce]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3228</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A party may still obtain custody of a child or visitation with a child that he/she is not biologically related to if that party qualifies as a &#8220;Presumed Parent &#8221; under California Family Code section 7611. This code section requires that the party seeking presumed parent status (1) has taken the child into his/her home [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custody Evaluation Tips'>Custody Evaluation Tips</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A party may still obtain <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>custody</strong></a> of a <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>child</strong></a> or <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a> with a child that he/she is not biologically related to if that party qualifies as a &#8220;Presumed <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>Parent</strong></a> &#8221; under <a href="http://www.leginfo.ca.gov/cgi-bin/waisgate?WAISdocID=4360565268+0+0+0&amp;WAISaction=retrieve" target="_blank">California Family Code section 7611</a>. This code section requires that the party seeking presumed parent status (1) has taken the child into his/her home and (2) openly held the child out has his/her own.</p>
<p>To satisy the first requirement, the party seeking presumed parent status must have physically taken the child into his home. There is no hard and fast rule (known as a &#8220;bright line rule&#8221; in law) on how many times the child was in the party&#8217;s home or for what length of time. Each determination will be made by the court on a case by case basis.</p>
<p>However, the court will take into consideration whether the party&#8217;s efforts to take the child into his/her home were thwarted by the other parent. In one example, the court awarded a man presumed parent status where he attempted several times to bring the child into his home, but the mother always refused his requests.</p>
<p>To satisfy the second requirement, a party must openly hold the child out as his/her own. For example, sending out birth announcements, referring to the child as &#8220;son&#8221; or &#8220;daughter&#8221; to others, and including the child in a will or other estate planning documents.</p>
<p>The determination of presumed parent is very fact intensive so be prepared to provide detailed evidence to the court.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custody Evaluation Tips'>Custody Evaluation Tips</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>Custody Evaluation Tips</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:43:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[divorce]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3222</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Promote Yourself But Don't Ignore The Other Parent


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child'>Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Who Gets Custody?'>Who Gets Custody?</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Promote Yourself But Don&#8217;t Ignore The Other Parent</h2>
<p>When significant <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>custody</strong></a> issues are in dispute during a <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Divorce-Separation"><strong>divorce</strong></a> the court may order a court appointed expert to conduct a custody evaluation. The court often relies solely on the evaluator&#8217;s report when making its custody determination. The custody evaluation will consist of interviews with both parents and the children, and may also consist of one or more home visits. Here are some tips to prepare for a custody evaluation:</p>
<p><strong>Tip #1:</strong> During the interview with the custody evaluator always refer to the <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>children</strong></a> as &#8220;our&#8221; children not &#8220;my&#8221; children. By using the term &#8220;our&#8221; children you will appear less alienating and more respectful of the other parent&#8217;s relationship with the children.</p>
<p><strong>Tip #2:</strong> If you are having a home visit be sure that pictures are displayed of the children with the other parent. A good room to place this picture is in the child&#8217;s bedroom. Of course the hope is that these pictures are already close by. Placing the pictures more prominently can be a good way to emphasize your acceptance of the children&#8217;s relationship with the other parent.</p>
<p><strong>Tip #3:</strong> During the interview with the evaluator focus on the children. Try not to discuss too many personal issues between you and the other parent unless the evaluator specifically asks you. Never bad mouth the other parent or call them names during your interview. In fact, if you have a few nice things to say about the other parent, do so. You will appear to be the more reasonable and cooperative parent.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child'>Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Who Gets Custody?'>Who Gets Custody?</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<item>
		<title>What Happens When The Custodial Parent Moves Away?</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/what-happens-when-the-custodial-parent-moves-away/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:38:20 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[move away]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3212</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How a "Move Away" Can Affect Your Custody Rights


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custodial Interference'>Custodial Interference</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-how-are-support-orders-enforced-when-the-obligated-spouse-or-parent-moves-out-of-state/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: How are support orders enforced when the obligated spouse or parent moves out of state?'>How are support orders enforced when the obligated spouse or parent moves out of state?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/adoption/stepparent-adoption/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Stepparent Adoption'>Stepparent Adoption</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>How a &#8220;Move Away&#8221; Can Affect Your Custody Rights</h2>
<p>When the <strong><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation">custodial</a></strong> parent moves across town, <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a> rights can still easily be maintained. But what happens when the custodial parent decides to move farther away, even to another state?</p>
<p>In the past, the custodial <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>parent</strong></a> could move wherever they wanted and the non-custodial parent had no say in the matter. Today however, many states have begun to move away from that line of thinking, recognizing that the disruption in visitation with the non-custodial parent could be detrimental to the<a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>child</strong></a> .</p>
<p>Because of this change in perception, some courts now require that the custodial parent give adequate notice before any kind of drastic move and must gain the approval of the non-custodial parent and/or the court before the move can take place.</p>
<p>The custodial parent must have a good reason for the move, such as a new spouse that lives in the proposed location or a verifiable offer of better employment. The court will then have to weigh the expected benefits to the family with the potential disruption to the child.</p>
<p>If the child has a close and involved relationship with the non-custodial parent, the court is less likely to disrupt this relationship. Likewise, if the move would make it difficult or impossible to continue visitation, the court may deny the request. On the other hand, if the non-custodial parent has not taken advantage of scheduled visitation or if the relationship is a strained one, the court may decide to allow the move.</p>
<p>The court will also consider the advantages to the child, such as better education or facilities that could better accommodate the child’s special needs or medical condition.</p>
<p>If the move is allowed, the court will restructure visitation to maintain the relationship between the child and the non-custodial parent and may reduce <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Child-Support"><strong>child support</strong></a>or impose travel expenses on the custodial parent.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/faq-what-does-custodial-interference-mean/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custodial Interference'>Custodial Interference</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/child-support/faq-how-are-support-orders-enforced-when-the-obligated-spouse-or-parent-moves-out-of-state/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: How are support orders enforced when the obligated spouse or parent moves out of state?'>How are support orders enforced when the obligated spouse or parent moves out of state?</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/adoption/stepparent-adoption/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Stepparent Adoption'>Stepparent Adoption</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Types of Child Custody</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:33:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[legal custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[physical custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3208</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[How Divorce Can Affect Your Relationship With Your Child


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child'>Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Who Gets Custody?'>Who Gets Custody?</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Ways the Court Can Dictate How Custody is Divided Between Parents</h2>
<p>There are different types of child <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>custody</strong></a> that can be granted by the court:</p>
<h3><strong>Physical Custody</strong></h3>
<p>Physical custody means that the child lives with you, at least part of the time. A parent with physical custody will be responsible for (and have the right to) see to the daily needs of the child, such as keeping him home from school when he’s sick and allowing him to go play with friends as well as the more major needs such as food, clothing and a safe place to sleep.</p>
<h3><strong>Legal Custody</strong></h3>
<p>Legal custody gives you the right to make the major decisions that will affect your child’s life. A few examples of these types of decisions re where they’ll go to school, what religion they’ll practice and authorization for medical care.<strong></strong></p>
<h3><strong>Joint vs. Sole Custody<br />
 </strong></h3>
<p>Each of the custody types mentioned above (Physical and Legal) may be awarded jointly to both parents or solely, meaning only to one parent and each type of custody is addressed separately.</p>
<p><strong>Joint physical custody </strong>allows the child to spend equal amounts of time with both parents, say a week here and then a week there, although you can have a completely different arrangement and still have <strong>joint legal custody </strong>(both parents having the ability to make important decisions for the child).</p>
<p>Even in cases of sole physical custody, many courts maintain the practice of awarding joint legal custody, allowing both parents to participate in decision-making processes. This requires the parents to communicate any concerns or desires about their child’s upbringing by maintaining a civil, cooperative relationship and work together as a team.</p>
<p>The main factor the courts consider is what will provide the most stability for the child. If the parents live close together and can both provide equally well, then a “back and forth” schedule may be a realistic possibility.</p>
<p>On the other hand, if the parents live farther away from one another, the court may rule that the child stay in one home during the school year and live with the other parent when school is not in session. Holidays, birthdays and other special occasions are also addressed during the negotiation process so that both parents have the opportunity to share in the child’s memorable milestones.</p>
<p>If <strong>sole physical custody </strong>is awarded to one parent, the other parent will likely receive <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a>.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/obtaining-custody-of-a-non-biological-child/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child'>Obtaining Custody of a Non-Biological Child</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Who Gets Custody?'>Who Gets Custody?</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>37</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Who Gets Custody?</title>
		<link>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/</link>
		<comments>http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/who-gets-custody/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Sep 2009 12:24:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>MyFamilyLaw Admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Custody & Visitation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[child]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[custody]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[divorce]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parent]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[visitation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://law.mydemo.com.au/?page_id=3193</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Why Aren't You Guaranteed Custody of Your Children?


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custody Evaluation Tips'>Custody Evaluation Tips</a></li></ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2>Why Aren&#8217;t You Guaranteed Custody of Your Children?</h2>
<p><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>Custody</strong></a> of the <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting"><strong>children</strong></a> has always been a sensitive and emotional area when facing a <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Divorce-Separation"><strong>divorce</strong></a>. Ultimately, the courts want to provide the best environment possible for the child, but it’s not always an easy task to determine what that environment should be. In the past, our legal system had a tendency to favor the mother and award minimum <a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation"><strong>visitation</strong></a> to the dads, believing that mothers had a natural ability to create a more loving and stable environment. But those days are changing.</p>
<p>Today, courts prefer to keep both parents active in the child’s life and will lean toward a joint custody arrangement as often as possible. Even in cases where the mother is deemed to be the primary caregiver, the father can still receive liberal visitation rights and also continue to participate in the decision making process through joint legal custody.</p>
<p>Because the courts no longer rely on the old gender stereotype, a number of more appropriate factors are taken into consideration when awarding custody.</p>
<p>First and foremost, the court looks at who’s asking for custody and if the parent’s have already <a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Drafting-A-Parenting-Agreement"><strong>worked out an agreeable and feasible arrangement</strong></a>. For more information on making these arrangements, check out this book on <a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Book-Review-Building-A-Parenting-Agreement-That-Works"><strong>builiding a parenting agreement that works</strong></a>.</p>
<p>The judge will then consider the financial stability of both parents, as well as their mental and physical ability to care for the child. Work schedules, lifestyles and place of residence also come into play as does the amount of disruption a particular arrangement might cause the child.</p>
<p>If the <a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/What-Happens-When-The-Custodial-Parent-Moves-Away"><strong>parents live far away</strong></a> for example, it may not be feasible to award a <strong><a href="http://myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/Types-of-Custody">joint custody</a> </strong>arrangement where the child moves between houses on a monthly basis. Likewise, a parent who works seven days a week and is rarely home may not be able to provide the best living situation for long periods of time.</p>
<p>Likewise, a parent who travels frequently, works long hours or demonstrates little patience and/or a short temper will be less appealing to the courts than the parent with a flexible schedule that allows plenty of time to devote to the kids.</p>
<p>All of these factors will play a part in the court’s decision-making process and in the end, the custody arrangement awarded will be designed to provide a stable and secure environment for the child with as little disruption as possible.</p>
<p>Look into this book about <a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/library/Children-Parenting/Custody-Visitation/Book-Review-Your-Right-to-Child-Custody-Visitation-and-Support"><strong>your right to child custody</strong></a> and search for a <strong><a href="http://www.myfamilylaw.com/yp/guide/divorce_lawyers/child_custody_experts">child custody expert</a> </strong>in our Yellow Pages for additional information.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/types-of-custody/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Types of Child Custody'>Types of Child Custody</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Child Custody and Visitation'>Child Custody and Visitation</a></li><li><a href='http://myfamilylaw.com/library/children-parenting/custody-visitation/custody-evaluation-tips/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Custody Evaluation Tips'>Custody Evaluation Tips</a></li></ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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