When a couple that has children decides to get a divorce, one of the biggest sources of stress is how to determine a child custody arrangement that works for all involved. The court system is always going to look at what is best for the children in the family and will work to find a solution that gives the children the best chance at a healthy, stable and positive environment. A family lawyer and/or a divorce mediator can help families explore child custody options that might work best for their unique situation. Kallemeyn & Kallemeyn specializes in family law and has helped many families in the Coon Rapids, MN area find common ground and the best path forward for families struggling to navigate a divorce.
Custody Arrangement Terminology
There are several important terms that are important when discussing the important topic of child custody. “Legal custody” grants one parent the right to make important decisions about the child or children’s upbringing including decisions related to health care, religion and education. “Joint Legal Custody” means that both parents share the responsibilities to determine the major decisions in a child’s life, including overall upbringing, education, healthcare decisions and religion.
“Physical Custody and Residence” is the location in which the routine care for the child takes place. Finally, “Joint Physical Custody” means that the location in which the routine care for the child or children occurs is shared between the two parties.
Navigating Child Custody Negotiations
Because of the sensitive (and emotional) nature of child custody issues, it is most often wise to seek the help and support of a professional family law attorney or mediator for help navigating these sometimes difficult waters. A family law attorney or divorce mediator is trained to help families navigate the divorce process. If you elect to go through the court system for your divorce, you will need the assistance of a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer. If you decide to proceed via mediation, a divorce mediator can help you settle important issues such as child custody, child support and division of assets and debts.
Kallemeyn & Kallemeyn offers both family law and family mediation services for those in the Coon Rapids, MN area. Lisa Kallemeyn has more than 20 years of experience in family law and in addition to her law degree, she is a Qualified Neutral under Rule 114 of the Minnesota Rules of Practice. She specializes in in divorce and custody mediation. Call (763) 427-5131 for more information.
