Saturday, August 27, 2011

Alabama Basics of Custody


The reasons for divorce are many, and in many cases child custody is becomes a battle between the divorcing parties.  Bonnie and Clyde seek to inform the readers of “Custody Lane” their individual perspectives on the topic.  Bonnie and Clyde are residents of the great State of Alabama; and therefore, will keep the focus on the current custody laws in Alabama. 

The best course of action regarding custody is for the divorcing parties to agree to a parenting plan on their own.  This can save both parties; as well as the child, from the mental distress associated with a custody battle.  This will also save significant costs associated with a trial.  If divorcing parties cannot agree, they will be leaving the decision of custody in the hands of a Domestic Relations Judge.

There are two types of physical child custody in Alabama.  Sole physical custody means that one parent is the primary caregiver, meaning the child will live with that parent, and the other parent has visitation.  Joint physical custody means the child will have frequent and substantial time shared between the parents.  It does not necessarily mean that each parent has equal time with the child. 


7 comments:

  1. I agree that both parents need to come up with a plan. They should come together and put there difference aside. It should also depend on several things on whether who should get custody. The weekends should be considered and weekdays should be a stable place for that child or childreen to grow.

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  2. Thanks for your comments and interest Roderick. Look forward to more controversy regarding this topic in future posts!

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  3. Very good topic! When it comes to divorce, children suffer the most. Each individual is almost always concerned about their own well being and not what's best for the child. I may step on few toes when i say this.....but I am against granting sole custody to one parent in the event of a divorce. The child has not done anything wrong so why should he/she have to give up quality time with a parent. Parents should be made to make the environment as pleasant as possible for the child. That means putting on happy face, talking civilized to one another, and loving that child unconditionally.

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  4. I wonder what the statistics are for divorces with minor children in the state of Alabama.

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  5. Does the court even take into consideration what the child wants? sometimes if you listen to the kids they can shed a lot of information about whats really going on in the house.

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  6. Ruby - There are many statistics provided on the web about divorce numbers, as well as, percentage of custody award types and whether moms or dads are favored in the Alabama Court Systems.

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  7. @knypope - yes the courts do consider a childs wishes but there are some age limitations regarding these considerations. Additionally, this topic gets tricky and sometimes requires the involvement of a psychiatrist. Just call custody a tough issue!

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