Child Custody
As parents divorce, the custody arrangement they create impacts how their children will be raised. State laws vary regarding custody arrangements; generally speaking however there are two categories of custody agreements: legal custody and physical custody.
Legal custody gives one parent or another authority over decision regarding upbringing, education, health and religion of their child(ren), while physical custody determines where he or she will live daily - judges may award sole or joint physical custody depending on what best serves their needs as parents.
Courts may award parenting time or visitation rights to noncustodial parents, granting them regular contact with the child. Changes in circumstances like prolonged illness, new job offers, relocation, remarriage or the birth of second children on either side may call for modifications to existing child custody agreements and visitation plans; in such instances a family lawyer can help guide your decisions for an arrangement that suits your specific circumstances.
Divorce
If you and your spouse cannot reach an agreement about custody, support or property division matters, the next step may be a trial. These proceedings typically take place before a judge, although some states use jurors. Both parties present evidence and testimonies before presenting before the judge for decision-making purposes.
Divorce can be emotionally challenging for all parties involved. Young children may experience distress and be less cooperative; teens and adults may face challenges in relationships, work and school as a result of divorce. 
An experienced family law attorney can help you understand how divorce impacts children of various ages while offering solutions that will minimize negative side effects.
If you can't afford an attorney, consider using a legal aid office or bar association referral service instead. They may provide consultations at no cost or reduced rates and often attorneys offer consultation services as a consulting basis - they can answer specific queries or review draft settlement agreements.
Property Settlements
Division of assets (financial and nonfinancial) is an essential element of divorce proceedings. This can either be accomplished through mutual consent or court order; when ordering division, courts take into account ongoing and future financial needs as well as contributions (both financial and nonfinancial) made throughout the relationship and parental responsibilities for any children involved.
Experienced Point Cook family lawyer are essential in guiding clients through this difficult process and helping them reach a satisfactory resolution. We negotiate diplomatically while still possessing legal skill and tenacious reasoning to protect our clients from being taken advantage of by other parties involved in your dispute.
Point Cook also possesses extensive expertise in amending existing child support, custody and/or alimony agreements to meet changing circumstances such as illness, recovery of health or an increase in income that necessitate modifications to these arrangements. If this occurs for you he can help secure a suitable amendment of your settlement agreement.
Preparing for Court
An important event that could shape your child's future is attending a family law hearing. Beforehand, all finances and assets should be in order, organized and documented as best possible. Furthermore, it's vital that you prepare yourself mentally for this hearing to ensure a smooth process and understand exactly what is expected from you during it.
Make an appointment to meet with your lawyer at least once before any hearing, in order to discuss evidence you plan on presenting, potential witnesses you should call and any other pertinent topics.
Before your hearing date arrives, it is a good idea to visit the courthouse a day early. This will enable you to locate parking spaces and familiarize yourself with the physical environment you will find yourself in during your trial date - which should help reduce anxiety and uncertainty on that particular day.