In any child custody dispute, the best interests of the child are the primary concern, and a judge will rule on the case with those interests in mind. However, such issues can also be decided upon outside of court if the parents can come to an agreement. In either situation, it is a good idea for parents to seek legal help to protect their own rights as well as their children's.
Like everyone else in the United States, Coloradans certainly get their fair share of celebrity news, but high-profile family law cases can also serve as talking points for those of us who don't spend our lives in the limelight. For instance, Denver residents might be interested to know that the child custody case between Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston was recently closed due to a lack of activity.
Johnston's attorney (not affiliated with our firm) suggested that the dormant dispute is a sign that the parents will seek to resolve their custody problems outside of court. The young parents initially fought over the custody of their (now) 3-year-old son, Tripp. In 2010, they agreed that Palin would have physical custody and Johnston would have visitation rights and pay child support.
Palin and her son have appeared on the reality television series "Bristol Palin: Life's a Tripp," and Johnston's not actively taking part in the child's life was an aspect of the story. Still, he sought custody of his son, claiming the little boy wasn't in a nurturing home environment.
As anyone who has been through one knows, a child custody battle is a struggle for everyone involved. It is important for parents to understand their rights so that they can make informed choices about custody arrangements and upholding the best interests of the child. It is also important to remember that those arrangements can be made inside or outside a courtroom.
Source: Huffington Post, "Bristol Palin, Levi Johnston Custody Case Closes In Alaska," Becky Bohrer, Sept. 17, 2012
Tags: child custody, child support, family law, fathers' rights, parental rights
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