Are there guidelines for custody of children in D.C.? Yes. Joint or sole custody may be awarded during or after the divorce process by the D.C. courts. The decision will be made without regard to the parents' sex, sexual orientation, race, color, national origin or political afflictions. The court will consider the best interests of the child as determined by applying the following factors:
- the wishes of the child and the wishes of the parents.
- the child's adjustment to school, home and community settings
- the mental and physical health of all involved
- the child's interaction with all significant family members
- the willingness of the parents to share custody and major decisions
- the prior involvement of each parent with the child
- issues/proximity of each parent as the relate to the practical consideration of the child's residential schedule
- sincerity of the parents' requests
- the age and the number of children involved
- the demands of the parents jobs
- resulting welfare status
- evidence of abuse by either parent
- financial capabilities
- benefits to the parties involved
In D.C., the courts presume that joint custody is best, unless determined otherwise. Also, the courts may order the parents to submit a written parenting plan for custody.
What about medical insurance for the children?
Generally, the decision as to which parent is going to provide medical insurance coverage for the child and how medical bills will be paid is set out in the material settlement agreement. If a responsible medical insurance plan is available through one of the parent's employment, the may be required to cover their child on it.
Can child support payments be withheld from your ex's earnings? Yes. Most all U.S. states, including the District of Columbia, have a provision for withholding child support directly from the earnings of the parent who has been ordered to provide support. It is withheld much like income tax is withheld from earnings payments.
This way of paying and receiving child support is generally easier for both parties and considered a very dependable solution. The way it typically works is that, once the support is withheld, it is sent to the state agency authorized to receive and disburse payments. Once it has been verified that the support was paid, it is then sent to the parent designated to receive the support. |
