Podcasts about Child custody

Michael Fried, a family law attorney at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein joins me to help parents navigating divorce better understand what to expect when it comes to child custody, how courts make custody decisions, and how to create a parenting agreement that truly serves their child's best interests.   Together we explore:   Why today's courts increasingly begin with the assumption that children benefit from strong relationships with both parents, and what that means for custody decisions. The common mistake parents make when approaching custody and why "winning" isn't actually the goal. What judges are really looking for when determining a child's best interests. How to think about 50/50 custody, and why there isn't one schedule that's right for every family. The developmental factors that should shape a parenting plan, from toddlers to teenagers. Practical strategies that help children adjust to living in two homes with greater security and less stress. The communication tools that can reduce conflict and make co-parenting more successful, even when the relationship between parents is strained. What parents should document during a custody case and when it makes sense to revisit a parenting agreement as children grow.   Whether you're considering divorce, actively navigating a custody arrangement, or simply want to better understand how to protect your child's emotional well-being through a separation, this conversation offers practical guidance grounded in both legal expertise and child development.     LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:

⚖️ Custody Agreements Can Change When Circumstances Change | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ What to Do If Your Ex Won't Communicate About the Kids. | Los Angeles Divorce

Seeking Divorce Assistance in These Locations? Our Team Can Help!   Riverside: https://bit.ly/4lYPO9o Corona: https://bit.ly/44gJROv Irvine: https://bit.ly/3EvvQSL San Diego: https://bit.ly/4lOg85X Palm Desert: https://bit.ly/4jNWZzc   Founded in 2021, Reel Fathers Rights APC is a Nationally Recognized Family Law Firm that focuses exclusively on representing Men and Fathers in Family Court in California. RFR boasts over 300 years of combined family court experience and was recognized as the top law Firm on the Inc 5000 List for 2025. RFR attorneys have earned dozens of awards and certifications from being named Certified Family Law Speicialist by the State Bar of California to being named Rising Stars by Best Lawyers and Ones to Watch by Super Lawyers. RFR attorneys are equipped to handle everything from contentious Child Custody disputes to high profile, high-stakes divorce, and defense of serious Domestic Violence Allegations. RFR is the go-to attorney for Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. You can learn more about Reel Fathers Rights and their services on our website www.reelfathersrights.com   Mark Reel Jr. is the Founder and CEO of Reel Fathers Rights APC. Since 2021, Mark and RFR have represented thousands of Men and Fathers in California Family Courts. Mark has been named One to Watch by Best Lawyers and a Rising Star by Super Lawyers. He has also been recognized by Inc on their Ince 500 list of fastest growing companies as well as Elite Lawyer and Expertise.com   About this episode In this episode: California family law attorney Mark Reel breaks down Luka Dončić's international custody battle with his ex-fiancée. Mark explains why dueling cases were filed in Slovenia and Los Angeles, how the UCCJEA and “home state” rules decide where custody belongs, and why filing in California was such a high-stakes move financially. He also walks through how child support is calculated for ultra–high income earners, why a $50 million demand may really be about leverage, and why these cases often end in confidential lump-sum settlements rather than massive monthly payments.

⚖️ What Happens If One Parent Refuses to Follow the Visitation Schedule? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ A visitation schedule is more than just a calendar—it is part of a custody arrangement that helps create consistency for children and both parents. When one parent repeatedly refuses to follow the agreed or court-ordered schedule, it can create confusion and frustration. The best approach is to stay organized, document missed exchanges or changes, and understand the proper steps available to address custody concerns.

⚖️ How to Make Co-Parenting Work Even If You Disagree. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ Custody Decisions Are About the Child's Best Interests | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ How to Handle False Allegations in a Custody Case. | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ False allegations during a custody case can be stressful, but responding emotionally is usually not the best approach. California courts focus on evidence, documentation, and what is in the child's best interests when making custody decisions. Keeping organized records, maintaining communication history, and presenting accurate information can help ensure the court understands the full situation.

It's the 100th episode of A Year and a Day! To celebrate this milestone, Jaime Davis is revisiting five conversations that have resonated with listeners over the years. From knowing when it's time to leave a marriage to understanding relationship patterns, preparing for family court, navigating co-parenting with a high-conflict ex, and finding joy after divorce, these episodes capture some of the most meaningful moments from the first 100 episodes of the show.Featuring highlights from…How to Know When to Leave Your Marriage, with Kate AnthonyFrom "My Relationship Fail" to Learning: Rebuilding After a Breakdown with Bryan PowerTips for Appearing in Family Court with Judge Brian RatledgeCo-Parenting with a Narcissist: Strategies for Protecting Your Children and Your SanityDivorced, Not Done: Caroline Stanbury on Co-Parenting, Reinvention, and Owning Your PowerWhether you've been listening since episode one or you're discovering the show for the first time, we're glad you're here. Thank you for helping us celebrate 100 episodes!If you are in need of legal assistance in North Carolina, contact us at Gailor Hunt by visiting www.divorceistough.com.Like this show? Rate it here! 

⚖️ How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing. | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Preparing for a child custody hearing can feel overwhelming, but having organized documents and a clear understanding of your parenting situation can make the process more manageable. California custody decisions focus on the child's best interests, making preparation and accurate information extremely important. Before a hearing, parents should understand their parenting plan, organize relevant records, and be prepared to explain important facts about their child's needs and current arrangements.

⚖️ What Factors Determine Who Gets Custody of a Child? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Child custody decisions are not based on which parent simply wants custody more. California courts focus on the child's best interests and consider several factors when creating custody arrangements. Important considerations may include each parent's relationship with the child, ability to provide care, stability, involvement in daily life, and willingness to support a healthy relationship with the other parent.

⚖️ How to Handle Child Custody Disputes Without Court. | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ What Happens If One Parent Refuses to Follow the Visitation Schedule? | Los Angeles Divorce What happens if one parent refuses to follow a court-ordered visitation schedule? In California, custody and visitation orders are legally binding and are expected to be followed. If a parent repeatedly fails to comply without a valid legal reason, the other parent may ask the court to enforce the existing order. When circumstances have changed, requesting a formal modification is generally the appropriate legal process rather than simply ignoring the current order. This video explains how visitation orders work, why compliance matters, and what legal options may be available when problems continue.

⚖️ How to Handle False Allegations in a Custody Case. | Los Angeles Divorce False allegations can make a child custody case more stressful, but responding calmly and with credible evidence is often more effective than reacting emotionally. In California custody matters, courts evaluate the facts based on the evidence presented. Organized documentation, communication records, parenting schedules, and other relevant information can help provide important context when custody issues are being reviewed. This video explains why documentation matters, how to approach custody disputes professionally, and why keeping detailed records can support your position throughout the legal process.

⚖️ What Happens If Your Ex Violates a Court-Ordered Custody Agreement? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Parents sometimes face situations where an ex doesn't follow the court-ordered custody agreement. Knowing your legal rights and the steps to enforce custody can protect both you and your children.

✔️ Can You Stop Visitation Over Unpaid Child Support? | Los Angeles Divorce ✔️ Many parents wonder if missing child support payments give them the right to stop visitation. In California, child support and visitation are legally separate, and understanding your rights is essential for making informed decisions.

⚖️ How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing | Los Angeles Divorce

⚖️ How to Modify a Child Custody Agreement After Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Families sometimes need to update a child custody agreement after divorce due to life changes such as relocation, work schedule adjustments, or the child's evolving needs. Understanding the legal process and proper documentation is essential for ensuring smooth modifications.

⚖️ What Factors Determine Who Gets Custody of a Child? | Los Angeles Divorce How do California courts decide who gets child custody after a divorce? In Los Angeles custody cases, judges focus on one guiding principle: the child's best interests. Custody is not automatically awarded to one parent. Instead, courts evaluate the unique circumstances of each family when determining legal and physical custody arrangements. This video explains the factors California courts commonly consider and why every custody case is evaluated individually.

⚖️ How to Prepare for a Child Custody Hearing. | Los Angeles Divorce Preparing for a child custody hearing involves much more than simply appearing in court. California courts rely on organized information and relevant evidence when evaluating custody issues. Parenting schedules, communication records, calendars, and other supporting documentation can help present your position clearly and allow the court to better understand the circumstances of your case. This video explains how to prepare for a child custody hearing, what documents are commonly important, and why organization can make a meaningful difference throughout the legal process.

⚖️ Can You Get Full Custody Without Going to Court? | Los Angeles Divorce Can you obtain full custody without appearing in court? In many California custody cases, parents who agree on custody arrangements may submit their agreement to the court for review. Depending on the circumstances, a judge may approve the proposed custody order without requiring a formal court hearing. Even when parents agree, the paperwork must still be complete, accurate, and comply with California law. This video explains how uncontested custody agreements work and why proper documentation remains essential.

⚖️ What Happens If My Ex Refuses to Follow the Child Custody Agreement? | Los Angeles Divorce ⚖️ Parents in California sometimes face situations where a child custody order isn't being followed. Understanding your legal options and maintaining proper documentation is essential for protecting your child's schedule and your parenting rights.

⚖️ How to Modify a Child Custody Agreement After Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce Life changes after divorce, and sometimes your parenting plan needs to change too. A child custody agreement does not automatically update when work schedules, school routines, or family circumstances change. In California, modifications generally require a formal request and court approval before a new custody arrangement becomes legally enforceable. This video explains when a custody modification may be appropriate, how updated parenting plans are prepared, and why properly documenting changes helps protect both parents and children.

✔️ Can You Stop Visitation Over Unpaid Child Support? | Los Angeles Divorce Many parents wonder whether they can stop visitation if the other parent isn't paying child support. Under California law, the answer is generally no. Child support and parenting time are treated as separate legal issues. A parent's failure to pay support does not automatically suspend their court-ordered visitation rights. Likewise, denying visitation because support hasn't been paid can create additional legal problems. This video explains why California separates child support from custody and visitation, what legal options are available when support isn't being paid, and how to enforce your rights through the proper court process.

⚖️ How to Modify a Child Custody Agreement After Divorce | Los Angeles Divorce

Is your ex simply emotional, or are you dealing with someone who thrives on conflict?In this episode, Jaime talks with attorney, therapist, mediator, and High Conflict Institute co-founder Bill Eddy to unpack one of the most important distinctions in divorce: the difference between a high drama person and a high conflict person. While both can make separation stressful, knowing which one you're dealing with can completely change your strategy.Bill explains the warning signs of a high conflict personality, why these individuals often blame everyone but themselves, and how they can keep families locked in conflict for years. He also shares tools for protecting yourself, communicating effectively, and keeping your children out of the crossfire, including his widely used BIFF communication method and insights from his newest book, SLIC Solutions for Conflict.Get your copy of SLIC Solutions for Conflict here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/195005747X?lv=shuf&channelId=500&plpRedirect=mhFallback Need help from Bill? Contact him by visiting www.highconflictinstitute.com.If you are in need of legal assistance in North Carolina, contact us at Gailor Hunt by visiting www.divorceistough.com.Like this show? Rate it here! 

Parental alienation is a legal emergency, not just heartbreak — and family court is too slow to stop it on its own. Here's how fathers move from venting to evidence with a court-focused, 6-category documentation framework.When a parent starts canceling visits, blocking school and medical access, or quietly rewriting a child's story, the damage becomes "normal" long before a judge ever hears the case. In this briefing we treat alienation as both an emotional crisis and a legal one, and we unpack a real-time split in family law: New Hampshire's HB 1323, which would define parental alienation in statute and force a ruling within 60 days (with remedies like makeup parenting time, custody changes, and attorney's fees), versus Canada's Bill C-223, which would move to ban alienation claims and reunification therapy. We cover the narratives behind both, the peer-reviewed research on long-term harm to kids, and why the data does not support the "junk science" label. Then we bring it home to what you can do this week: a practical documentation system that proves patterns, defends against false claims, and demonstrates your own fitness and flexibility as a dad.In this episode: why speed is alienation's weapon · HB 1323's 60-day rule and its remedies · Bill C-223 and the counter-narrative · what the research really says · the 6-category evidence framework. Support the showBeing unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Weekend Visitor Risk Assessment (TheDivorceQuiz.com): Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Strategic Risk Consultation (TalkWithJude.com): Book a private triage to ensure your mistakes don't become your permanent reality.Your kids are counting on you.

⚖️ What Happens If My Ex Refuses to Follow the Child Custody Agreement? | Los Angeles Divorce

When Unmarried Couples Split Up Episode 392 – What happens when unmarried couples split up? Sometimes it can be even more complicated and unpleasant than a divorce. As with many things, it's probably better to prepare in advance. More SML Planning Minute Podcast Episodes Transcript of Podcast Episode 392 Hello, this is Bill Rainaldi, with another edition of Security Mutual's SML Planning Minute. In today's episode: what happens when unmarried couples split up? We've had a couple of episodes over the last few years talking about some of the financial complications that come with divorce. But what happens when an unmarried, but financially-linked, couple splits up? Sometimes it can be even more complicated and unpleasant than a divorce. According to the National Center for Family & Marriage Research, the number of people living together without being legally married has grown to over 20 million, up from 14 million in 2019.[1] And while most people seem to make their best efforts, things don't always work out. When things go downhill, it's not just financial accounts that can get messy. It's personal property, pets, and sometimes child custody or child support issues. When couples get divorced, the rules are generally dictated by state law. This is not always true for a couple that has never legally married.[2] In most cases, there is no automatic legal framework. Without a clearly defined set of legislative principles, some people end up being treated more like roommates and less like spouses. When you're not legally married, there's usually no formal process like there is with a divorce. And in most states, there is no spousal support such as alimony, although “palimony”—compensation paid by one member of an unmarried couple to the other after they separate—might be available if there’s “an express or implied contract.”[3] Keep in mind that laws vary widely from state to state. If you’re going through something like this, you will likely need the help of a local family law attorney. Financial considerations can become tricky when an unmarried couple splits up. For example, what happens when you buy a house together, but only one of you ends up on the deed? Despite any informal side agreements, the person whose name is on the deed is in a much stronger position. If both names are on the deed, the presumed split is generally 50-50.[4] Conflict can also arise when one partner may have contributed more financially, such as with the down payment, or may have contributed more time and effort maintaining or fixing up the house. All of this may come up when the house is sold. Sometimes, rather than selling the house to a third party, the two parties will try to work out some sort of negotiated buyout, assuming one of the two wishes to stay.[5] Personal property, such as furniture and sentimental items, can be another sticking point. One proactive financial strategy is to maintain the best records you can on who paid for what. It may come in handy if there's a disagreement later.[6] Some experts also suggest using what’s called a “cohabitation agreement.” A cohabitation agreement is a document, designed by an attorney, for unmarried couples who either live together or plan to do so. It generally covers things like property ownership, expense sharing, and rights to financial support from each other. It can be similar to a prenuptial agreement.[7] A cohabitation agreement generally covers things like asset ownership, debt and bill payment responsibilities, and financial support. It could also cover pets, which can be an emotionally charged issue, as well as estate planning arrangements.[8] What if you're in what is known as a “common law marriage?” A common law marriage occurs when two people are considered legally married, even though they haven't participated in a lawful marriage ceremony or gotten a marriage license. This generally occurs in certain states when a couple lives together for a specific period of time and holds themselves out as intending to be married, or as already married.[9] The rules vary considerably based on where you live, but in some states, a common law marriage can be subject to the same marriage and divorce laws as a regular married couple. As with a divorce, things get much more complicated—and serious—when children are involved. Don’t assume that custody will automatically be 50/50. Parental rights are often decided separately from financial issues. And just like in a divorce, a court will tend to focus on the best interest of the child.[10] Finally, experts recommend that when you actually do complete your breakup, make sure you cover all the bases. That means separating your accounts, changing passwords, and keeping everything documented.[11] It's also important to review and manage beneficiaries that may have been designated when you were together. The old adage is certainly true: love is blind. But when you build a financial life without marriage, while it may not sound romantic, it might be beneficial to treat things more like a business partnership, which in some ways it can be. A little more preparation and caution today could prevent a ton of headaches later. No one really expects their new or current relationship to fail. When it does, the healing process is difficult enough. It’ll be worse if you don't plan accordingly. [1] Ebeling, Ashlea. “If You Think Divorce Is Messy, Try Splitting Up When You're Not Married.” The Wall Street Journal. https://www.wsj.com/personal-finance/divorce-unmarried-cohabitation-laws-24057ac4?mod=author_content_page_1_pos_1 (accessed May 29, 2026). [2] Id. [3] Barrett, Stacy. “How to Divide Property When Unmarried Couples Break Up.” Nolo.com. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/free-books/living-together-book/chapter10-1.html (accessed May 29, 2026). [4] Nolo.com. “Who Gets the House When an Unmarried Couple Splits Up?” Nolo.com. https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/free-books/living-together-book/chapter10-7.html (accessed June 1, 2026). [5] Id. [6] Renier Hotopp Law Offices, LLC. “Getting Personal Belongings Back After Breakup or Divorce Wisconsin.” Therhlawoffice.com. https://therhlawoffice.com/getting-personal-belongings-back-after-breakup-or-divorce-wisconsin/ (accessed June 1, 2026). [7] Froment, Liz. “What Is a Cohabitation Agreement, and Should You Have One?” Acg.aaa.com. https://www.acg.aaa.com/connect/blogs/5c/money/what-is-a-cohabitation-agreement (accessed June 1, 2026). [8] Id. [9] The People's Law Library of Maryland. “Common Law Marriage.” Peoples-law.org. https://www.peoples-law.org/common-law-marriage (accessed June 1, 2026). [10] Custody X Change Research Team. “Unmarried Parents and Child Custody.” Custodyxchange.com. https://www.custodyxchange.com/topics/custody/family-members/unmarried-parents.php (accessed May 29, 2026). [11] Reifman, Arkady. “Should I Change My Passwords When Going Through Divorce?” Resolvingdivorces.com . https://resolvingdivorces.com/should-i-change-my-passwords-when-going-through-divorce/ (accessed June 1, 2026). More SML Planning Minute Podcast Episodes This podcast is brought to you by Security Mutual Life Insurance Company of New York, The Company That Cares®. The content provided is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Information is provided in good faith. However, the Company makes no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information. The information presented is designed to provide general information regarding the subject matter covered. It is not to serve as legal, tax or other financial advice related to individual situations, because each individual's legal, tax and financial situation is different. Specific advice needs to be tailored to your situation. Therefore, please consult with your own attorney, tax professional and/or other advisors regarding your specific situation. To help reach your goals, you need a skilled professional by your side. Contact your local Security Mutual life insurance advisor today. As part of the planning process, he or she will coordinate with your other advisors as needed to help you achieve your financial goals and objectives. For more information, visit us at SMLNY.com/SMLPodcast. If you've enjoyed this podcast, tell your friends about it. And be sure to give us a five-star review. And check us out on LinkedIn, YouTube and Twitter. Thanks for listening, and we'll talk to you next time. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. The information presented is based on current interpretation of the laws. Neither Security Mutual nor its agents are permitted to provide tax or legal advice. The applicability of any strategy discussed is dependent upon the particular facts and circumstances. Results may vary, and products and services discussed may not be appropriate for all situations. Each person's needs, objectives and financial circumstances are different, and must be reviewed and analyzed independently. 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The lie gets declared unfounded, the TRO gets dismissed, and your nervous system finally unclenches. Then your attorney leans in and says the words that can cost you years: “Let's look reasonable and do a step up plan.” We're not letting that happen. We break down why the 48 hours after exoneration are a strategic crossroads in family court, and how “reasonable increases” can turn a temporary CPS investigation into a permanent downgrade of your custody and parenting time.We walk through the core idea in plain English: when restrictions were imposed only as a precaution, the moment the allegation is cleared the baseline must reset to what it was before. No begging. No slow ramp. We use a simple analogy to make it stick, then explain how family law incentives and the power of status quo push judges toward the easiest pattern to maintain, especially in high conflict divorce and parental alienation dynamics.From there, we get concrete. We talk about Time Taken Time Back reforms like Texas SB 718 and Oklahoma SB 1723, and how to demand compensatory parenting time even if your state hasn't passed a statute yet. We also hit the second trap: staying out of the marital home after an ex parte order is lifted. That choice can bleed you financially and hand the other side the physical fortress that shapes custody outcomes.You'll leave with a direct script for coaching your divorce attorney and a clear list of motions to discuss immediately: emergency restoration of the pre-allegation schedule, compensatory makeup time, re-entry and exclusive possession of the home, and where available sanctions and attorney's fees for knowingly false reports. If this helps, subscribe, share it with a dad who needs it, and leave a review so more fathers can find the playbook. Being unprepared is how great fathers become weekend visitors. Most ground is lost quietly through "drift" and decisions made under pressure. Stop the drift today at TheDivorcedDadvocate.com.Access your tactical tools:Risk Assessment: Identify your "quiet loss" exposure in 10 minutes.Protection Session: Book a private triage to ensure mistakes don't become permanent.Your kids are counting on you. Support the show

In this episode of A Year and a Day, Jaime Davis talks with Donna Jean Kendrick, a certified financial planner, to unpack the financial side of divorce that the legal side can overshadow. Donna, author of The Divorce Money Map, walks listeners through building a clear picture of assets, debts, and expenses before negotiations even begin. She explains why financial preparedness isn't about being a numbers person; it's about knowing where to look and who to ask.In this episode, Jaime and Donna dig into some of the thorniest financial decisions divorcing couples face:How to map out what you own, what you owe, and what you need to ask for during discoveryThe difference between basic living expenses and lifestyle expenses, and why it matters for negotiationsWhat to weigh before deciding to keep or sell the family home, including equity, maintenance costs, and capital gains exposureWhy alimony and child support aren't as guaranteed as people assume, and how to protect against the gapsHow to rebuild a sustainable financial life after the divorce is finalWhy assembling a trusted team of professionals is essentialDonna draws on her own experience as a widow who discovered just how costly it can be to not ask enough questions about a spouse's investments, offering a candid look at why financial literacy matters. Practical, empathetic, and refreshingly jargon-free, this episode is essential listening for anyone trying to protect their financial future during, and after, divorce.

Courtney is considering separating from her husband after 12 years of marriage due to longstanding communication problems and ongoing verbal and emotional abuse. The couple has two children, and her husband has stated that he would fight for custody if she pursues a separation.  Got a dilemma? Call 1-800-DR-LAURA / 1-800-375-2872 or make an appointment at DrLaura.com Follow on social media: Facebook.com/DrLaura Instagram.com/DrLauraProgram YouTube.com/DrLaura Join the Dr. Laura Family!! >> Receive my weekly newsletter, perks, and more! Sign up now, it's FREE > DrLaura.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.