Child Custody (Legal Custody) in an Oregon Divorce: Mediator Matthew House, J.D.

What is legal custody? In Oregon, legal custody of children refers to decision-making authority -- whether parents jointly make major decisions concerning minor children or whether one parent has the final say.

Why it Matters: Every case involving minor children requires a determination of legal custody. Agreeing in advance on how you will make major decisions will help you to be better co-parents.

Common Mistakes or Oversights:

• A judge cannot order joint custody unless both parents agree. Many people don't know this. The only way to get joint custody is through an agreement.
• Legal custody is different from physical custody. Physical custody means parenting time.

How Matthew Can Assist You: .

• Matthew will help you to be specific about your expectations of each other as co-parents to prevent disagreements, so that joint legal custody can be a smooth arrangement.
• Matthew will generally not accept a case in which sole custody is sought.

What to Prepare: Nothing.