Month: March 2022

Different Types of Custody Arrangements

There are several types of custody arrangements possible when parents divorce. We often think of custody as either 50/50 or one parent getting full custody. However, there are actually more options than just those two. Joint custody means that both parents have equal rights to make decisions for their children. Kids usually split their time between their parents’ houses. Sole custody means that one parent is the main caregiver. Non-parental custody is uncommon but happens if the court believes a third party is more able to care for the children than the parents. And finally, the least common is split custody. In this, siblings are split up between their parents. There are many options for custody and each case depends on the parents and children involved.

Different Types of Custody Arrangements: Common and Uncommon

Joint Custody

Joint custody is one of the most common custody arrangements. It can look different for different families. However, it means that both parents equally are responsible for their kids. Often this means that children split their time between parents and switch back and forth between their houses. The parents must make any legal decisions about the children together.

Full/Sole Custody

Full or sole custody is another custody arrangement that is somewhat common. With sole custody, one of the parents is legally responsible for making decisions for the kids. In addition, the children live with them full time. Often the other parent has visitation rights. This is more likely to happen if one parent is unfit or not capable of child-rearing.

Non-Parental Custody

One of the custody arrangements that are less common is non-parental custody or third-party custody. This happens when both parents are unfit or not able to legally care for their children. It often means that kids live with their grandparents, step-parents, or other family members.

Split Custody

Finally, split custody is a rare custody arrangement to be awarded. Many people mistakenly use the term when they actually mean shared or joint custody. But it actually means something very different. In split custody, siblings each live with a separate parent. The court doesn’t usually decide on split custody, because most people believe that siblings should stay together. However, in rare cases, this type of custody might happen. It is more common if the children go to different schools, and have a large age gap, special needs, or disciplinary issues.

While there are many different types of custody arrangements, the most common one in our country is joint custody. Most courts feel that it’s important for children to have both of their parents in their lives making decisions for them together. However, in some situations, one parent might have sole custody. It’s less common, but sometimes children go to live with non-parental guardians in a third-party arrangement. And finally, the least common is split custody, where siblings are split up between parents. Divorce is difficult for everybody, including kids. It’s important that the arrangement be whatever is best for the well-being of the children. If you are going through a divorce, hopefully, you will find the arrangements that work the best for you and your family.

Divorce Court Etiquette


Divorce court etiquette might not seem like a big deal, however, first impressions are important. Being respectful and well-mannered might set the stage for a positive experience with your divorce proceedings. It never hurts to know the appropriate manners for any situation, especially one as formal as a court of law. Dress appropriately and respectfully. Be on time, or better yet, early. Nothing sets a worse tone than arriving disheveled and late. Be respectful of the judge, and also the other people in the courtroom. And finally, stay calm even when you are dealing with emotional topics. Following proper etiquette might seem like a small detail but it’s best to put your best foot forward when it comes to the courtroom.

Divorce Court Etiquette You Should Be Aware Of

Dress Appropriately

Make a good first impression of divorce court etiquette by dressing appropriately. For men, this means a suit or slacks and a button-down. For women, a professional dress, pantsuit, or slacks and blouse combination. Keep your hairstyle neat and professional-looking, and keep facial hair trim. There’s a place for showing your unique style with your clothing, but divorce court is not it.

Be On-Time

Another way to set the stage right with divorce court etiquette is to be on time. It’s best to arrive ahead of schedule. You’ll often need to contend with downtown traffic, parking, and security measures. Budget in extra time for figuring out your way around the courthouse and going through a metal detector. Arriving early will give you a chance to gather your thoughts. Arriving late and in a tizzy will leave you feeling stressed and does not make a good first impression.

Be Respectful

Another aspect of divorce court etiquette that is very important is to be respectful. When addressing the judge, use the term ”Your Honor.” Everybody should stand as the judge enters. Also, make sure to be respectful of everybody else in court by listening quietly and turning off your phone.

Stay Calm

Finally, another part of divorce court etiquette is to stay calm and collected. Only speak if somebody asks you a question directly. Answer as calmly as you can, without getting overly emotional. It’s easy to feel emotional in this situation, but the more collected you can be, the better. Answer clearly and make eye contact. The more level-headed you appear, the better off you will be.

Divorce court etiquette is an important part of the divorce process. It might seem like a small detail, but getting off on the wrong foot can affect your divorce. Show respect for the court by dressing professionally and appropriately. Make sure to allow yourself plenty of time to get to court, and budget in an extra half hour to make sure you are on time. Be respectful to the judge and also the rest of the court. And finally, be calm and collected. It’s a very emotional thing to go through, but you will make the best impression if you stay cool under pressure. Hopefully, you will be able to make a great impression and have a divorce that is as stress-free as possible.

Improving Communication in a Marriage

Communication in a marriage is the absolute most important thing for a happy and long-lasting relationship. Communication isn’t just about talking to each other, though. It’s also about learning how to connect in other ways. One of the best ways to improve communication is to become a better listener. It’s also important to take time to talk when there are no distractions. Often, miscommunication happens because of simple logistics, so having a central place for information can be very helpful. And finally, learning your specific love language and your partners can be very helpful. Hopefully, you can learn to improve your communication and make your marriage stronger.

Improving Communication in a Marriage: The Secret Sauce for Success

Become a Better Listener

One of the best ways of improving communication in a marriage is to get better at listening. Listening doesn’t just mean being quiet while your partner talks. It also means thinking about what they’re saying. And showing that you understand. Nod, maintain eye contact and ask thoughtful questions to show you care. In return, your partner will likely listen more closely when you talk as well.

Be Distraction Free Sometimes

Improving communication in a marriage means being distraction-free sometimes. Life is busy. Between our phones and busy jobs, it can be hard to find time to talk without distractions. However, it is very important in a marriage. Try to set aside time each day where you put away your phones. Perhaps, try at mealtimes. If you have young children, take some time after they go to bed to connect about your day.

Have One Central Place for Information

A lot of times, miscommunication happens simply because people aren’t on the same page. Simple logistics can cause issues in a marriage just as easily as major problems. Improving communication in a marriage might just mean having one place to go for important information. For example, try a calendar app that your whole family can share. Having a central location for important information can help you stay on the same page with family events.

Learn Your Love Languages

Finally, one of the best ways of improving communication in a marriage is to learn each of your love languages. Each person has specific ways that they communicate with those they love. These can be through acts of service, words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, and gift-giving. Learning which love language your partner speaks can help you connect more easily.

Improving communication in a marriage is one of the easiest ways to make it stronger. Communication is the basis of any relationship and is so important. Learning to listen better is a great way to start. Show your partner that you are interested in what they have to say. It’s also important to have some time to talk when you can focus without distractions. So put away your phones for a few minutes each day. This can let you truly connect. It can also help to have one place to go to for important family information. For example, a shared calendar app. And finally, learn your partner’s love language. By communicating with them in their love language, you can show how much you care. Hopefully, you can learn to communicate better and make your marriage even stronger.