DIVORCE-LAW IN THE UNITED-STATES - A FOCUS ON CHILD-CUSTODY

In this article, we review important legal issues related to child custody decision making during and following divorce, and also abstract relevant information from the 50 states and District of Columbia. We discuss the best interests of the child (BIOC) standard and intermediate rules that can be or are used to define best interests. We also discuss the legal standing of third parties litigating with natural parents; the rights and responsibilities of noncustodial parents, grandparents, and stepparents, and the role of alternative dispute resolution forums and professionals other than judges in the decision-making process.