Summary
Navigating the complexities of child custody and support can be one of the most challenging aspects of family law. Join us for an informative and empowering webinar, "Child Custody and Support: What You Need to Know," where we will delve into the critical aspects of child custody and support in Arizona. Whether you are beginning the process, currently involved in a dispute, or simply seeking to understand your rights and responsibilities, this session will provide valuable insights and practical advice.
Key Topics to be Covered:
1. Types of Custody:
- Legal Custody: Understand the meaning of legal custody, which involves the right to make important decisions about your child’s life, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.
- Physical Custody: Learn about physical custody, which pertains to where the child will live and the day-to-day care arrangements.
- Joint vs. Sole Custody: Explore the differences between joint custody (shared responsibilities) and sole custody (one parent has primary responsibility), and the factors that influence these arrangements.
2. Factors Courts Consider in Custody Decisions:
- Best Interests of the Child: Gain insights into how courts determine the best interests of the child, including the child's physical and emotional needs, stability, and the ability of each parent to provide care.
- Parent-Child Relationship: Learn about the importance of the relationship between each parent and the child, and how it impacts custody decisions.
- Parental Conduct and Cooperation: Understand how a parent’s behavior, willingness to cooperate, and ability to foster a positive relationship with the other parent can influence the court’s decision.
3. Calculating Child Support:
- Income Considerations: Discover how child support is calculated based on the income of both parents, including wages, bonuses, and other earnings.
- Child Support Guidelines: Get familiar with Arizona’s child support guidelines, which provide a framework for determining the appropriate amount of support.
- Adjustments and Deviations: Learn about potential adjustments and deviations from the standard guidelines based on special circumstances, such as extraordinary medical expenses or educational needs.
4. Advocating for Your Child’s Interests:
- Effective Communication: Find out how to communicate effectively with your ex-partner and legal professionals to advocate for your child’s best interests.
- Documentation and Evidence: Learn the importance of maintaining detailed records and gathering evidence to support your custody and support case.
- Legal Representation: Understand the benefits of having experienced legal representation to navigate the custody and support process and to advocate on your behalf.