Establishing a parenting time plan can be one of the most important steps during a divorce. In New Jersey, family courts focus on the child’s best interests and aim to ensure stability during times of change. Understanding the process may help you approach these...
When parents disagree about custody, you may wonder how much your child’s voice matters. New Jersey courts do consider a child’s preference, but that opinion does not control the outcome. Judges focus on what supports the child’s overall well-being. How judges view a...
When parents separate, custody decisions focus on what serves the child’s best interests. A history of substance use can raise concerns for judges about a parent’s ability to provide a stable, safe home. While past issues don’t automatically end custody rights, courts...
Parenting time schedules and plans are critical when parents aren’t together any longer. If the child is an infant, this can be rather complex. Each aspect of the plan must take the child’s needs into account. Unlike older children, infants can’t express their needs...
Life can feel like a breath of fresh air after leaving a demanding job. You finally have a more predictable schedule and the chance to create routines that were once out of reach. If you’re co-parenting, you may be wondering whether this could open the door to...
Staying connected with a child is not always easy when parents live far apart. Virtual visitation, also known as electronic parenting time, has become a growing option for families who want to maintain strong bonds despite distance. With video calls, messaging apps,...
Family dynamics tend to change when parents share custody of their children. In some cases, children may bond with a parent who previously spent minimal time with them. Other times, they may grow to resent one of their parents if they blame that parent for the changes...
As you navigate your divorce, securing custody of your children is likely your top priority. The courts focus on your children's best interests rather than your preferences or desires. Understanding how courts make custody decisions can help you present the...
As we’ve discussed previously on this blog, parental alienation can be a key argument in a child custody dispute. If one parent is successful in showing this manipulative tactic, then the court is likely to rule in the non-alienating parent’s favor. That means if...
New Jersey family courts increasingly recognize that no two families look the same, and custody arrangements often require flexibility to reflect each family's unique needs. Although joint custody and sole custody remain common, judges may approve alternative models...