Custody

Custody cases can be very emotionally challenging. The initial hearings in any case are very important because it can be difficult to change court rulings later on. Developing a plan for the case is usually very important. Broadly speaking, there are two types of custody cases.

In the first type, both parents desire to get along and both have the ability, or at least potential ability, to do so. When this is possible, cases usually involve less work and time. Sometimes a gentle approach and working with the other spouse/partner can result in an agreement and encouragement to continue focusing on the children’s needs.

“Even if it is likely that you and your spouse will be able to cooperate and get along on custody issues, it’s still best to speak to a lawyer who can help you achieve this goal. All too often, separating parents start out with the best of intentions, but something goes wrong along the way and cases become difficult, or worse, spins out of control. Steps can be taken right away to try to increase the likelihood of preventing conflict from escalating.” Mark Baumann

In the second type of case, the parents have fundamental disagreements about how the future looks, and in some cases, the co-parent is engaging in harmful parenting practices. For these cases, initial steps can be taken to increase the likelihood of reducing or at least minimizing conflict, and also gaining protections for the client and children when harmful-parenting is an issue.

Mark Baumann and his staff are trained in and experienced with numerous parenting approaches, including science-based attachment parenting. They are familiar with the many types of parenting plans available for clients.