The Law Dictionary for Everyone
A non-custodial parent is one who does not have custody of his or her children. While a non-custodial parent may enjoy visitation with the children, and may even be actively involved in their lives, the children do not actually live with the non-custodial parent. This means that a non-custodial parent does not have primary physical custody of his or her […]
Read moreThe term parental alienation refers to psychological manipulation of a child, by saying and doing things that lead the child to look unfavorably on one parent or the other. In essence, parental alienation amounts to brainwashing the child, and it can be done both consciously and unconsciously. This is a significant problem in family law cases, and something that the […]
Read moreParenting classes are educational courses parents attend to learn about caring for their children. Parents attend the classes based on court orders, or simply as a way to learn better parenting skills. Parenting classes are found all throughout the United States, and they cater to parents with children of all ages. The primary goals of parenting classes include improving relationships […]
Read moreWhen a couple separates or divorces, the issue of child custody and visitation becomes very important. Many parents are able to work out an agreement regarding where the children will live, and visitation with the other parent on their own. Other parents find this to be a hot-button issue drenched in emotional pain, anger, and resentment, making it necessary for […]
Read moreThe Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (“UCCJEA”) is legislation adopted by every state for the purpose of determining which state has jurisdiction over, and authority to make decisions for, a child in a custody case. The UCCJEA has four main sections, all of which cover jurisdiction and enforcement related to child custody cases that cross state boundaries. To explore […]
Read moreFamily law refers to a parent who has been awarded sole physical custody of a child, or with whom the child primarily lives. The custodial parent is primarily responsible for the day-to-day care of the child. Commonly, parents are assigned joint physical and legal custody, which means they legally share parental duties, but it is necessary for the court to […]
Read moreWhen parents separate or divorce, how the children will be cared for becomes an issue. The legal term “parenting plan” refers to a written plan that states with whom the children will primarily live, a definitive schedule for visiting with the other parent, who will make major decisions regarding the children’s lives, and other important issues. A parenting plan may […]
Read moreWhen a judge makes a decision regarding child custody and visitation, the decision becomes an official court order. A child custody order is enforceable by the court, as well as by law enforcement should it become necessary. Changes to the provisions of a child custody order must be submitted to the court, and a new or modified order issued. To […]
Read moreThe law in the U.S. recognizes that, when parents separate or divorce, the children need to have frequent and continuing contact with both parents, in order to ensure both parents are able to share in the rights and responsibilities of raising healthy, happy children. The court has discretion in accomplishing this goal, and often awards primary physical custody of the […]
Read moreIn the United States, the legal system has recognized the importance of confirming a child’s paternity, which refers to who a child’s father is. Modern technological advances have made it possible to determine, without question, whether or not a man is a child’s father. This is important in the legal system, as it affects a man’s parental rights, as well […]
Read more