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Child Custody

Family law guidance for protecting custody decisions and building defensible records.

The Attorney’s Guide to Divorcing an Alcoholic Spouse
The Attorney’s Guide to Divorcing an Alcoholic Spouse
Planning – or considering – divorcing an alcoholic spouse? Believe me: What you’re going through is far from uncommon. As a family law attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how Alcohol Use...read more
The 50/50 Custody Schedule, Explained by an Attorney [+ Free Template]
The 50/50 Custody Schedule, Explained by an Attorney [+ Free Template]
In my years as a family law attorney, one of the most rewarding aspects of my work has been helping separated or divorced parents craft parenting plans that actually work....read more
Will CPS Take My Child for Smoking Weed? (and Other Questions)
Will CPS Take My Child for Smoking Weed? (and Other Questions)
If you’re a parent who smokes marijuana – whether recreationally or medically – you may be wondering: Can Child Protective Services (CPS) can take my child because I smoke weed?...read more
Visitation and the Alcoholic Parent: How Drinking Problems Affect Parenting Time
Visitation and the Alcoholic Parent: How Drinking Problems Affect Parenting Time
The direct effects of alcohol misuse, as outlined below, are bad enough. The indirect effects may be even worse – at least when it comes to child custody and visitation....read more
How to Write a Best Interest of the Child Letter: Example + Free Template
How to Write a Best Interest of the Child Letter: Example + Free Template
In child custody cases, the stakes are high and emotions run deep. Whether you’re seeking to maintain primary custody or working to regain custody after a difficult chapter in life,...read more
How to Draft a Child Custody Agreement Without Court
How to Draft a Child Custody Agreement Without Court
You might be surprised to learn that most states allow you to create a child custody agreement without court. It’s true. Parents can use informal agreements, mediation, and other forms...read more
What CPS Can and Cannot Do: An Attorney Weighs in
What CPS Can and Cannot Do: An Attorney Weighs in
When a client sits across from me and whispers, “CPS is involved,” I see the fear flood into their eyes.  And, if you’re reading this because Child Protective Services (CPS)...read more
6 Essential Child Custody Stipulation Examples [Free Template]
6 Essential Child Custody Stipulation Examples [Free Template]
Child custody stipulations are a wonderful example of the infamous saying: “Always get it in writing.” Why are stipulations so important to include in co-parenting plans? Well, joint custody states...read more
“Can a Closed CPS Case be Used Against You?” An Attorney Answers
“Can a Closed CPS Case be Used Against You?” An Attorney Answers
Yes. A closed CPS case can be used against you in family court, at least in many cases. These reports are part of the dreaded permanent record.1  Furthermore, in most...read more
How Long Does it Take for a Parent to Get Custody Back? An Attorney Explains
How Long Does it Take for a Parent to Get Custody Back? An Attorney Explains
Besides being an attorney, I am also a parent. As a parent, I can say that the love we have for our children knows no bounds. This is why the...read more
What is a Drug and Alcohol Evaluation?
What is a Drug and Alcohol Evaluation?
A court-ordered substance abuse evaluation is almost inevitable in many criminal or CPS cases, especially offenses directly related to drugs or alcohol, like drug possession and DUI.  This evaluation can...read more
Free Custody Evidence Checklist & Tracker: Build Your Strongest Case
Free Custody Evidence Checklist & Tracker: Build Your Strongest Case
Get your free Evidence Tracker & Checklist for child custody: Google Sheets → The cost of divorce and child custody cases is often overwhelming. Many lawyers charge by the hour,...read more