Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

18 March 2024

How Long Do Custody Cases Take?

The duration of custody cases can vary widely depending on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the jurisdiction in which the case is filed, the willingness of the parties to cooperate and reach an agreement, and the court’s docket and scheduling constraints. In general, custody cases can take anywhere from a few months to over a year to reach a resolution. Here are some factors that can influence the timeline:

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Type of Custody Dispute: The complexity of the custody dispute can significantly impact the duration of the case. Cases involving contentious issues such as allegations of abuse, substance abuse, or parental alienation may take longer to resolve than cases where the parties are able to cooperate and reach an agreement.
Court Procedures: Each jurisdiction has its own court procedures and timelines for custody cases. Some courts may have expedited procedures for resolving custody disputes, while others may have lengthy waiting periods due to backlogs and scheduling constraints.
Mediation or Alternative Dispute Resolution: Many courts require parties to participate in mediation or other alternative dispute resolution processes before proceeding to trial. The length of time it takes to schedule and complete mediation can affect the overall duration of the case.
Evaluation or Investigation: In some cases, the court may order a custody evaluation or investigation by a mental health professional or social worker to assess the best interests of the child. The time it takes to complete the evaluation or investigation can vary depending on factors such as the availability of the evaluator, the complexity of the case, and the need for additional information.
Court Hearings and Trial: If the parties are unable to reach an agreement on custody, the case may proceed to a trial where a judge will make a final decision. Court hearings and trial dates may be scheduled based on the court’s docket and availability of parties, attorneys, and witnesses, which can contribute to delays in the resolution of the case.
Cooperation of Parties: The willingness of the parties to cooperate and negotiate in good faith can have a significant impact on the duration of the case. Parties who are able to communicate effectively, collaborate on parenting plans, and work towards a resolution outside of court may be able to expedite the process.

Overall, it’s essential to consult with an experienced family law attorney who can provide guidance on the specific procedures and timelines for custody cases in your jurisdiction. Additionally, understanding the factors that can influence the duration of the case can help parties manage their expectations and make informed decisions throughout the process.

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Contact Canterbury Law Group today if you need an experienced child custody lawyer or guardianship lawyer in Phoenix or Scottsdale, Arizona to help with your case. Our experienced family law attorneys will work with you to achieve the best outcome for your situation. Call today for an initial consultation! 480-744-7711

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Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

1 February 2024

Defining Joint Legal Custody

Joint legal custody refers to a custody arrangement in which both parents share the legal rights and responsibilities regarding major decisions affecting their child’s life, even though the child may primarily reside with one parent. Here’s what joint legal custody typically entails:

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Decision-Making Authority: Parents with joint legal custody have an equal say in important decisions regarding their child’s upbringing, including matters related to education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. Both parents have the right to participate in making these decisions and must consult with each other before reaching a consensus.
Communication and Cooperation: Effective communication and cooperation between parents are essential for successful joint legal custody. Parents must be willing to discuss and collaborate on important decisions, consider each other’s perspectives, and prioritize the best interests of their child.
Parenting Plan or Agreement: Joint legal custody is typically established through a parenting plan or agreement, either voluntarily by the parents or by court order. This plan outlines the terms and conditions of joint legal custody, including how major decisions will be made, how disputes will be resolved, and the communication methods between parents.
Residential Arrangement: In most cases of joint legal custody, the child resides primarily with one parent (the custodial parent) while spending scheduled time with the other parent (the non-custodial parent). However, both parents retain equal decision-making authority, regardless of the child’s primary residence.
Equal Rights and Responsibilities: Parents with joint legal custody have equal rights and responsibilities concerning their child’s welfare and upbringing. This includes the right to access information about the child’s education, healthcare, and other important aspects of their life, as well as the responsibility to contribute to the child’s financial support and overall well-being.
Dispute Resolution: In situations where parents cannot agree on a major decision, the parenting plan or court order may specify a dispute resolution process, such as mediation or arbitration, to help parents reach a resolution. If necessary, the court may intervene to make a decision in the child’s best interests.

Joint legal custody allows both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life and ensures that major decisions are made collaboratively, taking into account the child’s best interests. While joint legal custody requires parents to work together effectively, it can provide stability and continuity for the child by maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents.

What Are The Basics of Joint Legal Custody?

Joint legal custody is a custody arrangement in which both parents share the legal rights and responsibilities regarding major decisions affecting their child’s life, even if the child primarily resides with one parent. Here are the basics of joint legal custody:

Shared Decision-Making: Parents with joint legal custody have an equal say in important decisions concerning their child’s upbringing, including matters related to education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. Both parents must collaborate and consult with each other before making significant decisions.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities: Joint legal custody grants both parents equal legal rights and responsibilities regarding their child. This includes the right to access information about the child’s education, healthcare, and other important aspects of their life, as well as the responsibility to participate in decision-making and contribute to the child’s financial support and overall well-being.
Communication and Cooperation: Effective communication and cooperation between parents are essential for successful joint legal custody. Parents must be willing to discuss important decisions, exchange information about the child’s well-being, and work together to resolve disagreements or conflicts in the child’s best interests.
Parenting Plan or Agreement: Joint legal custody is typically established through a parenting plan or agreement, either voluntarily by the parents or by court order. This plan outlines the terms and conditions of joint legal custody, including how major decisions will be made, how disputes will be resolved, and the communication methods between parents.
Residential Arrangement: In most cases of joint legal custody, the child resides primarily with one parent (the custodial parent) while spending scheduled time with the other parent (the non-custodial parent). However, both parents retain equal decision-making authority, regardless of the child’s primary residence.
Best Interests of the Child: The overarching principle in joint legal custody is the best interests of the child. All decisions made by parents should prioritize the child’s well-being, safety, and emotional development. Parents should consider factors such as the child’s age, maturity, preferences, and special needs when making decisions.
Flexibility and Adaptability: Joint legal custody requires parents to be flexible and adaptable to changing circumstances. It’s essential for parents to maintain open lines of communication, be willing to compromise, and seek the child’s best interests, even in challenging situations.

Overall, joint legal custody allows both parents to remain actively involved in their child’s life and ensures that major decisions are made collaboratively, promoting stability, continuity, and the child’s overall well-being.

How is Joint Legal Custody Shared?

oint legal custody is shared between both parents in a collaborative manner. Here’s how it typically works:

Equal Decision-Making Authority: With joint legal custody, both parents have equal decision-making authority regarding important aspects of their child’s life, such as education, healthcare, religious upbringing, and extracurricular activities. This means that both parents have the right to participate in making major decisions that affect the child’s well-being.
Collaboration and Communication: Parents are expected to communicate openly and collaborate effectively when making decisions about their child. This may involve discussing various options, sharing information, considering each other’s perspectives, and reaching a consensus on important matters. Effective communication is essential for successful joint legal custody.
Consultation Requirement: Before making significant decisions regarding the child, both parents are typically required to consult with each other and attempt to reach an agreement. This ensures that both parents have the opportunity to provide input and participate in the decision-making process. If parents cannot agree, they may need to seek mediation or court intervention to resolve disputes.
Parenting Plan or Agreement: Joint legal custody is often established through a parenting plan or agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of custody, including how major decisions will be made. The parenting plan may specify communication methods between parents, procedures for resolving disputes, and mechanisms for sharing information about the child’s well-being.
Flexibility and Cooperation: Successful joint legal custody requires parents to be flexible, cooperative, and willing to work together in the best interests of their child. This may involve compromising on certain issues, respecting each other’s opinions, and prioritizing the child’s needs above personal differences.
Respect for Court Orders: If joint legal custody is established through a court order, both parents are legally bound to comply with the terms of the order and fulfill their responsibilities as outlined. This includes following the parenting plan, attending mediation or counseling sessions if required, and adhering to any court-imposed conditions.

Overall, joint legal custody requires parents to share decision-making responsibilities and work together to promote the well-being of their child. By fostering collaboration, communication, and respect, parents can ensure that their child’s needs are met and that major decisions are made in their best interests.

Pro’s and Con’s of Joint Legal Custody

oint legal custody, like any custody arrangement, comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

Shared Decision-Making: Both parents have equal input and decision-making authority regarding important aspects of their child’s life, such as education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. This allows the child to benefit from the perspectives and input of both parents.
Continuity and Stability: Joint legal custody allows the child to maintain a strong relationship with both parents, even if they live primarily with one parent. This continuity of care and involvement from both parents can provide stability and emotional support for the child.
Promotes Cooperation: Joint legal custody encourages parents to communicate and collaborate effectively for the well-being of their child. By working together to make decisions, parents can model cooperation and problem-solving skills for their child.
Flexibility: Joint legal custody arrangements can often be flexible and adaptable to the changing needs of the child and the family. Parents can adjust schedules and decision-making processes as necessary to accommodate evolving circumstances.
Shared Financial Responsibility: Both parents share financial responsibility for their child’s upbringing, including expenses related to education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. Joint legal custody can help ensure that both parents contribute to the child’s financial needs.

Cons:

Communication Challenges: Effective communication between parents is essential for successful joint legal custody. However, communication breakdowns or conflicts between parents can make decision-making difficult and lead to disagreements or disputes.
Potential for Conflict: Differences in parenting styles, values, or priorities can sometimes lead to conflicts or disagreements regarding important decisions for the child. Resolving these conflicts may require mediation, counseling, or court intervention.
Logistical Challenges: Coordinating schedules, sharing information, and making joint decisions can be logistically challenging, especially if parents live far apart or have busy schedules. This can create practical difficulties in implementing joint legal custody arrangements.
Unequal Involvement: In some cases, one parent may be more actively involved in decision-making or may exert more influence over important decisions. This can lead to feelings of frustration or resentment if one parent feels marginalized or excluded from the process.
Potential for Legal Battles: Disputes over major decisions or disagreements between parents can escalate into legal battles, leading to increased stress, time, and expense for both parents. This can create a contentious or adversarial environment that is not in the child’s best interests.

Overall, joint legal custody can be beneficial for many families, but it requires effective communication, cooperation, and flexibility from both parents to be successful. By focusing on the needs of the child and maintaining a child-centered approach, parents can navigate the challenges of joint legal custody and work together to promote the well-being of their child.

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Child Custody, Family Law, Family Law Attorney, Family Law help in Scottsdale

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

1 February 2024

What Is Sole Physical Custody?

Sole physical custody, also known as sole residential custody or sole parenting time, refers to a child custody arrangement where the child primarily lives with and spends the majority of their time with one parent, known as the custodial parent or residential parent.

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Here’s a breakdown of key aspects:

Primary Residence: The child’s primary residence is with the parent who has sole physical custody. This parent is responsible for the day-to-day care of the child, including providing food, shelter, clothing, and supervision.
Decision-Making Authority: The parent with sole physical custody usually has the authority to make major decisions regarding the child’s upbringing, such as those related to education, healthcare, and religious upbringing. However, in some cases, major decisions may still require input from the non-custodial parent or may be subject to court approval.
Visitation or Parenting Time: The non-custodial parent typically has visitation rights or parenting time with the child according to a court-approved schedule. This schedule may include specified times for the child to spend with the non-custodial parent, such as weekends, holidays, vacations, and other agreed-upon times.
Child Support: In many cases of sole physical custody, the non-custodial parent is required to pay child support to the custodial parent to help cover the costs associated with raising the child. Child support payments are often determined based on factors such as each parent’s income, the needs of the child, and the custody arrangement.

It’s crucial to understand that:

Sole physical custody is not the preferred arrangement in most situations. Courts generally favor joint physical custody, where both parents share significant physical time with the child, as it is generally considered beneficial for the child’s well-being to maintain a relationship with both parents.
Sole physical custody is typically awarded only in specific circumstances, such as when:
- There are concerns about the child’s safety or well-being with the non-custodial parent due to factors like abuse, neglect, instability, or substance abuse.
- One parent lives a significant distance away, making frequent physical co-parenting impractical.
- Both parents agree to this arrangement and believe it is in the child’s best interests.

It’s important to note that sole physical custody does not necessarily mean that the non-custodial parent is completely excluded from the child’s life. In most cases, courts recognize the importance of maintaining a relationship between the child and both parents, even if one parent has primary physical custody. However, sole physical custody may be awarded if it is determined to be in the best interests of the child based on factors such as the child’s relationship with each parent, the parents’ ability to cooperate and communicate, and any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

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Child Custody, Family Law, Family Law Attorney, Family Law help in Scottsdale

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

2 January 2024

Does Guardianship Override Parental Rights?

When a child has a legal guardian, the guardian’s role differs from the parent’s role. The parent should understand how the guardian serves the child’s needs. Teachers, doctors, extended family and babysitters may also need to know what the guardian can do. Have questions about obtaining legal guardianship in Phoenix or Scottsdale Arizona? Contact Canterbury Law Group’s Guardianship Lawyers today.

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Guardianship versus parental rights

Guardians and parents have their own roles. The fact that the child has a guardian does not mean the parent has no rights.

Parental rights usually include the option to spend time with the child, as well as the authority to make major decisions and sign contracts for the child. Having a guardian does not generally change this.

After a guardian is appointed, the parent may continue to have custody. Even when the parent does not have custody, they may have a court order that allows them to visit their child.

In some circumstances, a court may suspend or terminate a parent’s rights. However, that is separate from appointing a guardian.

Legal guardian versus biological parent: Who has custody?

Guardianship and custody are distinct concepts. Usually, a parent continues to have custody even after a legal guardian is appointed. This is true whether the parent is biological or adoptive. The guardian may provide care for the child despite not having custody.

It is possible that a judge will later award custody to the guardian. This would be a new request and a separate legal process. Probate courts determine guardianship. Family courts determine custody.

Guardianship and parental visitation

Parents may have the right to visit their child while the child is living with the guardian. The details of a guardianship will depend on family circumstances.

Does the parent choose the guardian?

When a parent needs someone else to provide care for their child, they may consider a guardian. Appointing a guardian can be a responsible choice.

One way to tell the court in advance whom you want as guardian is to put this information in your parenting plan. This way your wishes are in a legal document signed by both parents, and the court can reference it if you die or become incapacitated.

If you are still alive and want to appoint a guardian, you can instead go to your court for the appropriate forms.

When a parent chooses to appoint a guardian, they can ask the court at any time to revoke the guardianship. They can also appoint a new guardian.

If the child’s well-being is at risk, the court may appoint a guardian against the parents’ wishes. The court order establishes the details.

A guardianship is temporary

Parenthood, whether biological or adoptive, is a permanent status. By contrast, guardianship is temporary. This is another way in which guardianship of a minor child is different from parenthood.

A court order begins and ends the guardianship. The order may set the guardianship to expire on a certain date. Otherwise, the order is valid until a judge updates it.

If a guardian cannot or will not continue to serve in their role, they must go to court to request a change. Sometimes the parent, too, has the right to bring an end to the guardianship. If the court approves, the guardianship can end.

Can the legal guardian parent the child, too?

Legally, a guardian is not a parent. As such, the guardian’s rights and responsibilities are not called parental rights. A guardian is a designated nonparent who protects the child’s interests.

The parent may keep their right to make long-term, major decisions. A court order specifies the unique details of each guardianship.

Despite not being a parent, the guardian often plays roles that are typical of parents. For example, a guardian may provide housing, oversee homework and take the child to the doctor. When considering the child’s daily care, the guardian may have the right to override the parents’ wishes.

Does the guardian pay for the child’s care?

Sometimes, a parent pays child support to the guardian. A child may also have their own income through government support or an inheritance. The guardian may be allowed to use this money for the child’s needs if they keep track of the spending.

In other situations, the guardian alone pays for the child’s needs. Just because a guardian spends money on the child does not mean they have more rights than the parent.

Does guardianship lead to adoption?

On its own, guardianship does not lead to adoption. In some circumstances, however, a guardian may apply to adopt the child. This is a separate process. Guardianship is not the same as adoption.

As part of the adoption process, a judge examines the biological parents’ statuses. Their parental rights (if any) are terminated when someone else adopts their child.

When the adoption is finalized, the guardian becomes the parent. This is a permanent status. Anyone who becomes an adoptive parent gains parental rights.

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Child Custody, Family Law, Family Law Attorney, Family Law help in Scottsdale

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

2 January 2024

The Differences between Guardianship and Custody

Guardianship and custody are legal arrangements concerning the care and well-being of a minor, but they have distinct differences:

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Who they apply to:

Custody: Refers to the legal responsibility for raising a child, typically awarded to biological parents, though it can also be granted to stepparents or other relatives through legal processes.
Guardianship: Applies when someone other than a biological parent or legal custodian needs to make decisions about a child’s care and welfare. This can be due to various reasons, like the parents’ incapacity, incarceration, or death.

Scope of responsibility:

Custody: Grants decision-making authority in various areas, including education, healthcare, residence, extracurricular activities, and religious upbringing. In some cases, it also covers financial support.
Guardianship: The scope of responsibility can vary depending on the specific case and court order. It may encompass daily care decisions (food, clothing, shelter), medical care, education, and some legal decision-making, but not necessarily all aspects of raising the child.

Duration:

Custody: Typically intended as a long-term arrangement, aiming to provide stability and continuity for the child. However, custody orders can be modified if circumstances change significantly.
Guardianship: Can be temporary or permanent depending on the situation. For temporary guardianships, the goal might be to reunite the child with their biological parents once they regain capacity. Permanent guardianships may be necessary if long-term care is required.

Legal standing:

Custody: Legal custodians have legal authority to make decisions for the child and represent them in court.
Guardians: Have varying levels of legal authority depending on the specific court order. They may require the biological parents’ consent for certain decisions, especially if the parents retain some parental rights.

Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:

Feature	Custody	Guardianship
Applies to	Biological parents, stepparents, relatives	Non-biological parents
Scope of responsibility	Broad (education, healthcare, residence, etc.)	Varies depending on court order (daily care, some legal decisions)
Duration	Long-term	Temporary or permanent
Legal standing	Full legal authority	Varies depending on order

Remember:

The specific details of custody and guardianship agreements can vary depending on the individual case and state laws.
Consulting with a lawyer experienced in family law is crucial for understanding your rights and responsibilities and navigating the legal process related to either custody or guardianship.

Guardianship:

Definition:
- Guardianship is a legal relationship in which an individual (the guardian) is appointed by the court to make legal and personal decisions for another person, usually a minor (the ward) or an incapacitated adult.
Court Involvement:
- Guardianship is typically established through a court process. The court evaluates the need for a guardian, and if deemed necessary, it appoints a suitable person to act as the guardian.
Decision-Making Authority:
- The guardian has the authority to make legal, financial, and personal decisions on behalf of the ward. This can include decisions about education, medical care, and overall well-being.
Termination:
- Guardianship may continue until the ward reaches the age of majority (18 years old) or until the court determines that the guardianship is no longer necessary.
Applicability:
- Guardianship is often used when a child’s parents are unable or unwilling to care for the child or when an adult lacks the capacity to make decisions for themselves.

Custody:

Definition:
- Custody refers to the legal right and responsibility of a parent to care for and make decisions on behalf of their child.
Court Involvement:
- Custody arrangements can be established by agreement between the parents, but they may also be determined by a court order in cases of divorce, separation, or when parents cannot reach an agreement.
Decision-Making Authority:
- Custodial parents have the authority to make day-to-day decisions for the child, including those related to education, healthcare, and general upbringing.
Termination:
- Custody typically continues until the child reaches the age of majority, and it may be subject to modification by the court if circumstances change.
Applicability:
- Custody is primarily associated with the relationship between a child and their biological or adoptive parents. It may involve sole custody, joint custody, or visitation rights.

Key Distinctions:

Legal Relationship:
- Guardianship involves a legal relationship established by the court, while custody is a legal right granted to parents.
Decision-Making Scope:
- Guardianship often grants broader decision-making authority, including financial and personal decisions, while custody focuses on the day-to-day care and upbringing of the child.
Origins:
- Guardianship can arise in situations where there is no biological or adoptive parent available or suitable to care for the child. Custody is typically associated with parental rights.

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Child Custody, Family Law, Family Law Attorney, Family Law help in Scottsdale

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

16 October 2023

Guardianship Versus Custody

Custody and guardianship are not the same thing. Although they are not interchangeable, both are made to ensure that kids receive the care they need.

There are other characteristics that set the two apart, but the primary distinction is that custody is usually based on parentage.

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A legal guardian: what is it?

A person designated by a court to look after a child and make decisions that are best for them is known as a legal guardian. The phrase’s legal component is not always required; it merely indicates that the guardian has been approved by a judge.

Each type of legal guardian has different authority and responsibilities.

A person’s guardian is in charge of a child’s welfare and makes decisions on the child’s behalf. The guardian is responsible for providing for the child’s basic needs, including food, housing, healthcare, and education.
The guardian of the estate is in charge of a child’s money. Guardianship of the person and the estate is typically assigned to the same guardian.
A foster parent is an example of a temporary guardian, or interim guardian. Compared to guardians of the person and of the estate, they have less authority, and they must obtain the consent of the court before taking certain actions on behalf of the child.
By default, parents are their children’s guardians. However, a court may name a guardian for a child whose parent is absent or unfit to raise them.

After a guardian is appointed, parents typically keep their parental rights and may petition to take on the role of guardian once more.

What is a caretaker?

A child is under the custodian’s custody. Usually, they are the child’s parents, but they could also be relatives or someone else who has a close relationship with the child.

Physical and legal custodians are the two categories of custodians.

The parent who resides with the child and is responsible for their primary care is the physical custodian. When parents share physical custody, they both have to put in a lot of time caring for the child.
The parent with the power to make decisions on behalf of their child is known as the legal custodian. When parents have joint legal custody, they can decide jointly or separately.
Parents have the option to jointly draft a parenting plan that specifies their custody agreement.

The distinctions between custody and guardianship
States differ in how they define guardianship and custody. However, generally speaking, the primary distinctions between the two are who can fill each role, what those roles entail, and how long the arrangement will last.

As previously discussed, guardianship is assigned to an individual other than a parent, whereas custody is given to parents or someone with a parental relationship.

Guardians have more limitations than legal custodians, who make all significant decisions for a child. A guardian typically only makes routine decisions that have an impact on the welfare and care of the child.

Final custody orders are regarded as permanent, even though a court may alter custody at any point until the child reaches legal maturity. In contrast, guardianship is frequently a transient arrangement. A parent may designate a guardian while they are ill, for example.

Comparisons between custody and guardianship
The terms custody and guardianship have a lot in common. Both are established by a court and pertain to legal relationships with children.

The daily responsibilities of a custodian and a guardian typically don’t differ all that much. These consist of:

supplying the child with food, clothing, shelter, medical attention, and education
Keeping the youngster safe
The child’s best interest is always the court’s primary consideration when selecting a guardian or custodian.

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Child Custody, Family Law, Family Law Attorney, Family Law help in Scottsdale

7 Ways To Lose Custody of Your Child: Moms and Dads

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

30 August 2023

How Domestic Violence Affects Child Custody in Arizona

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In this article, domestic violence will be defined and its implications for child custody in Arizona will be discussed. After reading this article, if you still have any questions, seek guidance from a family law attorney.

Overview of Domestic Violence

Unless they have the scars and marks to prove it, victims of domestic violence frequently don’t think they are actually victims. They might not use the services offered to assist them. However, according to Arizonan law, a number of actions qualify as domestic violence, including:

Making family or household members fearful they will suffer immediate physical harm; sexually assaulting or seriously injuring a family or household member; attempting to sexually assault or seriously injure a family or household member; and engaging in a pattern of abusive behaviors severe enough to allow a court to issue a protective order for the victimized parent or child.
Physical assault, threats, harassment, intimidation, stalking, wrongful detention, trespassing, property damage, kidnapping, and secretly photographing and watching victims without their consent are just a few examples of behaviors that fall under the definition of domestic violence. Abuse can be verbal, written, telephonic, electronic (such as online), or personal.

The law focuses on protecting members of the family and household. They consist of:

Former and current spouses

People who currently are or previously were in a romantic or sexual relationship, people who currently are or previously were living together, people who have a child together, people who are related by blood or marriage, people who have children together, people who have children together, and people who have a child together.
What constitutes a romantic or sexual relationship is frequently questioned. Judges consider four factors in order to make their decision:

How the relationship is structured

the duration of the relationship, the frequency of the partners’ interactions, and the amount of time that has passed since the end of the relationship.
You can go to court and request a domestic abuse protection order if you’re a victim of domestic abuse. See this information from the Arizona Judicial Branch, which includes the forms you must complete, to find out how.

Several services are offered by Community Resources Arizona to domestic violence victims. The non-profit A New Leaf offers a thorough directory of businesses that provide direct services like shelter-based housing, counseling, and case management. Additional information and resources for victims are listed by the Arizona Coalition to End Sexual and Domestic Violence, a non-profit organization.

The Arizona Department of Health Services has written a fact sheet with hotline numbers for those who have experienced abuse, and the Arizona Department of Economic Security has a Domestic Violence Program that can help victims.

The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached by victims by dialing 1-800-799-7233. It is accessible every day of the week, round-the-clock.

Domestic Violence and Child Care

Legal and physical custody are the two types. The location where a child resides and receives essential daily care, such as feeding and bathing, is known as physical custody. Legal concerns a parent’s authority to decide critically important matters for a child, such as their health and education.

To decide who should have custody of a child and what is in the child’s best interests, judges must weigh at least eleven different factors. Child Custody in Arizona: The Best Interests of the Child provides more details on the general criteria that courts use to decide these cases. Domestic violence is directly involved in two of the factors:

if there has ever been domestic violence or child abuse, and if either parent has ever been found guilty of reporting child abuse or neglect without having done so.
Evidence of domestic violence is considered to be against the child’s best interests by Arizona’s courts. As a result, it is less likely that a parent who has used domestic violence will be granted custody. In fact, parents cannot share joint legal custody if domestic violence has occurred.

Judges are required to give the victim’s and the child’s safety top priority in the case and to take the offender’s prior history of making threats against or harming other people into account. They must first determine whether it is more likely than not that abuse ever took place. In doing so, courts look at:

Decisions made by other courts

Reports from the police, the medical community, child protective services, domestic violence shelters, schools, and witness testimony.
A “rebuttable presumption” (a legal presumption) that awarding custody to the abuser is not in the child’s best interests must be applied by the court if it determines after reviewing the evidence that one parent used domestic violence against the other parent. The judge must consider all of the following elements before concluding that the offender has disproved that presumption:

whether or not the offender demonstrated that obtaining sole or shared custody is in the child’s best interests
whether the offender successfully completed court-ordered alcohol or drug abuse counseling, or, in situations where drugs are a problem, whether the perpetrator completed a batterer’s prevention program.

Whether the offender is no longer under a domestic violence protective order, whether the offender has committed additional acts of domestic violence against anyone else, and whether the offender successfully completed parenting classes that the court ordered in cases where the offender is on parole, probation, or community supervision.

Visitation Impact

Protecting the victimized parent or child from potential harm is the court’s top priority if the judge finds that domestic violence occurred. Until the abusive parent persuades the judge that parenting time won’t put the child in danger or stunt their emotional growth, they cannot be granted “parenting time” (Arizona’s term for visitation). Even if the court grants the request, it must still ensure the safety of the child and the other parent and may:

order that parenting time exchanges take place in a secure area (for instance, the lobby of a police station).
give a state agency the authority to supervise parenting time, with the provision that another family member or household member may supervise parenting time in certain circumstances.
order the abusive parent to refrain from using drugs or drinking alcohol either during parenting time or for the 24 hours prior to it. Establish any other requirements required to ensure everyone’s safety, such as requiring the abusive parent to pay a bond to ensure the child’s safe return, maintaining the privacy of the child’s and the other parent’s addresses, making the abusive parent pay any expenses related to parenting time, and so on.

Parental Rights Are Terminated

A relative, foster parent, doctor, licensed welfare agency, or the Arizona Department of Economic Security may file a petition asking the court to remove a parent’s parental rights in extremely serious situations where there is a pattern and history of child abuse. When parental rights are terminated, a parent loses all claim to the child’s physical and legal custody.

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Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

18 July 2023

Grandparent Rights in Arizona

Grandparents form an important part of extended families. In some families, grandparents are like another set of parents to children. Most grandparents care deeply for their grandchildren. If a child’s parents or guardians are failing in their duties, the grandparents might wish to step in and help.

In Arizona, grandparents can legally seek custody of grandchildren or visitation rights under the statutes A.R.S § 25-409. A grandparent must go to family court for these rights, and these petitions are carefully reviewed by a judge. The court decision will be based on what’s legally called the “best interests of the child.” Therefore, grandparents who want legal custody, visitation rights, or seek to adopt a grandchild should consult with Family Law help in Scottsdale.

How Can Grandparents Get Visitation Rights?

If a child’s parents deny the grandparents visitation rights under any circumstance, the grandparents can file a petition in court in Arizona. The court will consider the petition if the following conditions are true:

The child’s parents were never married.
The grandparent is the parent of a deceased or missing (for at least 3 months) parent of a child.
The petitioning grandparent is the parent of a non-custodial parent of a child, where the child’s parents are divorced and have been for at least three months.

If the above conditions are not met, it’s unlikely the court will consider the petition. Exceptions may be granted in the case of extraordinary circumstances, such as abuse. These considerations fall under the child’s best interests category.

Eligibility of the Grandparent

Grandparents petitioning for custody are required to meet certain eligibility criteria as set by Arizona law. The requirements go as follows:

The child’s legal parents should be deceased, in the process of getting divorced or legally separated, or were never married
For the grandparent to get custody of a child, then remaining in the parent’s custody must be detrimental to the child’s well-being.
The grandparent must be able to be “in loco parentis” to the child, meaning that the grandparents will provide the same care and support as a parent.
The custody of the child should not have been decided in the previous year (exceptions are granted in cases where the child could be harmed).

If the above eligibility requirements are not met, then the petition will be dismissed.

How Does an Arizonian Court Determine the ‘Best Interests of the Child’?

Under Arizona law, a court must consider “all relevant factors” when determining the best interests of the child. In family law, there are actually five statutory factors that courts always consider when approving a petition. Here are those factors as follows:

The relationship the grandparent has with the child in historical terms
The reason that the grandparent is petitioning for visitation rights
Why the parents may have denied the grandparent visitation rights
The impact of visitation on the child’s life or activities if the court grants the grandparent visitation rights, depending on the amount of visitation the petitioner seeks
If a parent, or both, are deceased, the benefit grandparent’s visitation will have on other extended members of the family

When Can Grandparents Petition for Visitation Rights

Grandparents can go to the family court directly for visitation rights. If the parents are getting a divorce or are in the middle of a custody battle, then a grandparent can sometimes file the petition as part of the divorce or custody proceedings. Consult with a lawyer for more specifics on when to file.

Grandparents can also formally adopt a child, but these types of petitions are subject to a different set of laws. Your family lawyer will be able to assist you in explaining these laws.

Grandparent Rights in Arizona

How Can Grandparents Get Visitation Rights?

The child’s parents were never married.
The grandparent is the parent of a deceased or missing (for at least 3 months) parent of a child.
The petitioning grandparent is the parent of a non-custodial parent of a child, where the child’s parents are divorced, and have been for at least three months.

Eligibility of the Grandparent

Grandparents petitioning for custody are required to meet certain eligibility criteria as set by Arizona law. The requirements go as follows:

The child’s legal parents should be deceased, in the process of getting divorced or legally separated, or were never married
For the grandparent to get custody of a child, then remaining in the parent’s custody must be detrimental to the child’s well-being.
The grandparent must be able to be “in loco parentis” to the child, meaning that the grandparents will provide the same care and support as a parent.
The custody of the child should not have been decided in the previous year (exceptions are granted in cases where the child could be harmed).

If the above eligibility requirements are not met, then the petition will be dismissed.

How Does an Arizonian Court Determine the ‘Best Interests of the Child’?

The relationship the grandparent has with the child in historical terms
The reason that the grandparent is petitioning for visitation rights
Why the parents may have denied the grandparent visitation rights
The impact of visitation on the child’s life or activities if the court grants the grandparent visitation rights, depending on the amount of visitation the petitioner seeks
If a parent, or both, are deceased, the benefit grandparent’s visitation will have on other extended members of the family

When Can Grandparents Petition for Visitation Rights

Grandparents can also formally adopt a child, but these types of petitions are subject to a different set of laws. Your family lawyer will be able to assist you in explaining these laws.

All states have recognized grandparent visitation rights for decades. Grandparent rights ensure that children have access to the benefits of having grandparents in their lives. Grandparents may exercise their custody rights when the child’s parents are unable to care for their child

Grandparent Custody Requirements

Statutory provisions for child custody are usually less specific than grandparent visitation. First, courts must consider the parent-child relationship with each parent.

If either or both parents are alive, courts in most states will presume that the parents of the child should retain custody. The court will always put the best interests of the child first. Ultimately, the court prioritizes the safety and well-being of the child.

The court will consider several different factors to make this decision. For example, the court might consider the child’s wishes if the child is old enough. The court will look at the physical health and mental health of each parent. They will also consider any history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

If the court finds one is an unfit parent, they might terminate their parental rights. This typically only happens when there has been severe abuse and neglect of the child and the parent has been given ample opportunity to change the situation. They might lose legal or physical custody of the child. The court also might order the parent who does not have primary physical custody to pay child support through a court order.

Grandparents must generally prove the parent is unfit to convince the court to award custody to them. It’s generally very difficult for a grandparent to get custody of their grandchild against the parent’s wishes. Other non-parents and family members might also petition the court for custody of a child.

Grandparent Visitation Requirements

Grandparents generally have to meet certain conditions before they can be granted court-ordered visitation. In a majority of states, courts must consider the marital status of the biological parents. Then, the court will evaluate the relevant factors to determine if visitation is appropriate.

Some states consider marital status only when the parents deny visitation rights to the grandparents. In other states, marital status is a factor if the grandchild has lived with the grandparents for a specific duration.

A minority of states require that at least one parent is deceased before a court can award visitation to the parent of the deceased parent of the child. For example, the court may award a maternal grandparent in one of these states with visitation only if the mother of the child is deceased.

In every state, grandparents must prove that granting visitation to the grandchild is in the best interest of the child. Several states also require that the court consider the grandparent-child relationship. They might also consider the effect of grandparental visitation on the relationship between the parent and child. They will also consider the possibility of harm to the grandchild if visitation is not allowed.

Effect of Adoption on Grandparent Visitation Rights

State statutes vary in their treatment of cases in which a grandchild has been adopted. In several states, adoption by anyone—including a stepparent or another grandparent—terminates the visitation rights of the grandparent.

In some states, adoption by a stepparent or another grandparent does not terminate visitation rights, but adoption by anyone else terminates visitation rights. In other states, adoption does not affect the visitation rights of grandparents as long as other statutory requirements are met.

Learn More About Your Rights as a Grandparent From an Attorney

Most grandparents would give anything to spend more time with their grandchildren. But family relationships can get complicated. Most state laws recognize the rights of individuals to visit with their grandchildren.

Find out how this could impact your family by talking to an experienced family law attorney. An attorney can provide valuable legal advice about your situation. Lawyers can help with child custody cases, resolve custody disputes, and represent you in family court.

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Divorce & Legal Separation, Scottsdale Divorce, Scottsdale Family Law, Scottsdale law firm

Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

18 July 2023

Physical Custody

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There are various forms of custody. After a divorce or legal separation, a child’s living arrangements are referred to as physical custody. It’s crucial that both parents are aware of what these phrases represent and how their custody agreement may be used to impose obligations on them.

Depending on the situation, different agreements will be made for child custody and parental rights. Prior to a custody dispute, parents should be aware of the different types of custody.

The physical custody of a kid is described in general terms in the paragraphs that follow. In the broader context of custody disputes, it also analyzes what physical custody entails.

How Does Physical Custody Work?

The legal and practical obligation of a parent or guardian to give a kid a home is referred to as physical custody. It is frequently decided in family court as a component of a custody dispute. A custody agreement or court decree specifying the parameters of custody may be used for this.

The child’s everyday residence is referred to as having physical custody. It involves making choices on the child’s daily schedule and upbringing, including food, clothing, and bedtime. The court has the discretion to award sole physical custody to one parent. Physical custody may also be shared by both parents. Legal custody is distinct from physical custody.

Legal custody is the authority to make crucial choices regarding a child’s upbringing. Decisions about extracurricular activities, healthcare, and education may fall within this category. A single parent may also be given sole legal custody by the court. Joint legal custody is another option when both parents share custody.

The Child’s Best Interest Standard

The child’s best interests will ultimately take precedence when deciding who will have primary custody of your child. This is the fundamental principle when considering custody arrangements.

This criteria is used by the courts to decide what arrangement will best serve the needs and interests of the kid. The courts will take into account things like domestic violence and drug abuse. When deciding on legal and physical custody, they will also take into account each parent’s capacity to make important choices for the kid.

Schedules for custody and visitation will also be outlined in the parenting plan. The custody arrangement is used to calculate child support. Every child custody dispute is framed by the best interests of the kid criteria. It is utilized to make sure that the welfare of the child comes first.

Right to visitation

The majority of contemporary custody agreements favor joint custody between the parents. This holds true unless one parent is deemed “unfit.” A parent is referred to as “custodial” if they have primary physical custody. The “non-custodial” parent is the other parent. They might be given visitation (sometimes known as “parenting time”) rights.

Some states also provide grandparents certain visitation privileges.

Solitary Custody

But occasionally, the court will grant sole custody to one parent. A parent who is granted sole custody of a kid has the child’s sole physical and legal custody.

Only when the other parent is deemed unsuitable or incapable of raising the child does the court normally grant sole possession. Abuse, drug addiction, and criminal activity are a few examples. The court might provide the other parent some visitation if one parent had sole custody, but it would be far more restricted than in a shared legal/physical custody arrangement.

Do You Need Assistance With a Physical Custody Dispute? Get Legal Assistance Now

A decision about physical custody is usually problematic emotionally. An experienced lawyer will understand how to cooperate with the court to obtain the greatest result for your child. They may be able to offer you useful legal counsel relevant to your particular circumstance.

Find a family law attorney in your area who has experience resolving custody disputes by starting your search right away.

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Regular Post

Written by Canterbury Law Group

29 November 2021

Does it Matter Who Files for Divorce First?

It’s a strategic decision whether to file for divorce before your spouse does, and one you might be able to avoid if you can file an uncontested divorce.
Is it important who files for divorce first when it’s time to end your marriage? It may be able to: When it comes to deciding some issues in a divorce, the non-moving spouse (the spouse who does not file for divorce) may be at a disadvantage.

Why Is It Important to File for Divorce First?

One (or both—more on joint filing later) spouse must file a divorce petition with the court to begin the divorce process. The petitioner is typically referred to as the “petitioner,” while the non-filing spouse is referred to as the “respondent.”

If you know there’s no way to reconcile, filing first may provide you with some strategic advantages, such as:

The location of the court is your choice. The petitioner gets to choose the jurisdiction (place) for the divorce procedures as long as the petitioner follows state and municipal regulations about where a divorce can be filed. Many states have a residence requirement in place to prevent either spouse from filing for divorce in a state or county that favors one spouse over the other. In Michigan, for example, the filing spouse must have lived in the state for at least 180 days and in the filing county for at least 10 days before the court will consider the divorce petition. (Michigan Comp. Laws, Section 552.9 (2021)) If your spouse files first and lives 100 miles away, you’ll have to travel to their courtroom for any divorce-related matters, which will take more time and money than if you filed first in the court closest to you.

Control over the divorce’s progress. The spouse who files for divorce usually has a little more say in how quickly the divorce proceeds. By filing first, you’ve started the process at your leisure, while your husband is forced to answer according to the court’s schedule. You’ll then have time to plot your next move while your spouse is working on a response.

The opportunity to make a good first impression. The petitioner’s statement concerning the grounds (reasons) for the divorce is included in the original divorce filing. The claims in the petition will be the court’s first exposure to information about the case—and if you file first, it’s up to your spouse to change the court’s first impression.

The first chance to place a temporary order. Before notifying the other spouse of the initial divorce petition, the spouse who files first might seek the court for temporary orders. These orders may place restrictions on what each spouse can do with marital finances or property, provide protection for one spouse against the other, award temporary child custody, or provide temporary child or spousal support. Non-filing spouses will have the opportunity to respond to any requests for orders, but they must do so before or at the same time as their petition response. Non-filing spouses can’t get their own temporary orders until they’ve responded to the petition.

Furthermore, the petitioner will be the first spouse to submit their case at trial in many courts. Being the first to speak at a trial isn’t always advantageous: it allows the opposing side to hear your arguments and prepare a rebuttal.

Should I Hire a Lawyer?

In some circumstances, both spouses can come together and make difficult divorce-related decisions without the assistance of an attorney or going to court. There’s no need to hire an attorney if you know you won’t be able to work things out with your husband. However, you may wish to employ an attorney to assist you in negotiating with your spouse or his or her counsel.

Even if you opt to handle your divorce on your own, you can still seek legal advice. An attorney can assist you evaluate if filing first would be advantageous in your instance during a consultation.

Is it always the case that one spouse files first?

Depending on your state’s rules, you may be able to file a “joint” divorce petition (also known as an uncontested or collaborative divorce in some jurisdictions), which implies that both spouses agree to the divorce as well as all divorce-related matters. The couple drafts a divorce settlement agreement and attaches it to their petition. In many states, an uncontested divorce is more efficient than a contested divorce, saving time, money, and relationships.

The following details must be included in your divorce settlement agreement:

the reason for the divorce (grounds)
each spouse’s portion of the filing fees at the court
how you’ll split up your marriage assets and debts
whether one spouse will pay spousal support, and if so, how much and for how long

Which spouse will be the primary caregiver for any young children (custodial parent)?

a timetable for the non-custodial parent’s parenting time or visitation, and
the amount of child support to be paid by the non-custodial parent

In most states, the court will approve a divorce if both spouses agree to all of the terms in writing. When minor children are involved, the court may ask the judge to carefully scrutinize the terms before approving them. Nonetheless, the court will allow the custody and support arrangements as long as they are in the best interests of the children.

Mediation Can Assist You in Filing a No-Fault Divorce

Divorce mediation is one option to avoid the headache of deciding whether or not to file for divorce before your spouse. You and your spouse meet with a neutral professional mediator to resolve the issues in your divorce, either in person or online. You will have a written settlement agreement to present to the court at the conclusion of a successful divorce mediation, and you will be able to proceed with an uncontested divorce.

If either spouse disagrees with any of the divorce terms, the case becomes contested, and the pair must follow the state’s contested divorce procedures.

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