Child Custody
When minor children are involved in a dispute the Nebraska courts will do everything possible to lessen the emotional trauma to the children. If the parents cannot come to an agreement regarding the issues involving the children, the court will establish the custody order at its discretion. The court considers the best interests of the minor child, which includes, but is not limited to: (a) The relationship of the minor child to each parent; (b) The desires and wishes of the minor child, when such desires and wishes are based on sound reasoning; (c) The general health, welfare, and social behavior of the minor child; and (d) Credible evidence of abuse inflicted on any family or household member.
Custody fights are expensive, time-consuming and emotionally charged. It is vital that you have an experienced, caring attorney who can and will counsel you every step of the way keeping the best interest of your children first and foremost. Vervaecke Law & Mediation is dedicated to protecting your children and you!
Nebraska Parenting Act
The Nebraska Parenting Act requires any parent involved in a court case involving their children, like separation, divorce, modification of an existing Decree, paternity or any other action involving visitation, to do the following:- Create a parenting plan for court approval;
- Attend a parenting education class;
- Participate in mediation if they or the attorneys involved are unable to negotiate a court approved parenting plan.
The Parenting Act
The Parenting Act requires both parents to complete a court approved basic parenting class, unless the court specifically excuses the requirement for good cause shown. After you finish the class, a certificate of completion must be filed with the court. Your district court clerk or county courthouse can provide you with a list of approved parenting classes in your area. You can also find information at the Nebraska Supreme Court Website.
Parenting Plan Mediation
A good faith attempt at mediating a Parenting Plan is mandatory in all cases that fall under the Parenting Act.
Mediation is a process during which a neutral, trained Parenting Act mediator works with you and your spouse informally to assist you in creating a parenting plan.
In some cases, the mediation process can assist you and the other parent in reducing tension between the two of you so you can function better as parents in the best interests of your children.
Specialized mediation is available for relationships involving domestic violence.