Multnomah/Clackamas County Child Custody Attorneys

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Often the parties can make decisions regarding the best interest of their children without resorting to court. This may be because one parent is available during times the other parent is not or that it is not appropriate to share custody decisions. If you are not agreeing to which parent should be awarded custody, it is wise to consider the ground rules established in the Oregon family law statutes. The following factors are established when deciding which parent shall be given custody of minor children:

• The emotional ties between the child and other family members

• The interest of the parent and attitude toward the child

• The existing relationship

• The abuse of one parent by another

• Of course, it is best if the parties can agree on how to structure their children’s time and major decisions without assistance, but when parents cannot, family mediation is often helpful and required in some Oregon courts. Another resource is the use of trained and experienced professionals. This may involve family counselors trained to assist the parents in deciding what is best for the children. Because this is a difficult choice the use of trained professionals can be helpful and if you are required to go to court, the judge will listen to the opinion of this expert. However, if the expense is outside of your financial ability, the judge is well-trained in making this decision also. Oregon requires that parents complete a parenting class designed to stress the importance of both parents remaining a part of their children’s lives. Many counties, including Multnomah County, require the parents to at least attempt parenting time mediation to assist the parties in making this decision before the matter can be presented to a trial court.