HIGH CONFLICT CUSTODY BATTLES When parents are unable to agree on a parenting plan through informal means, the Court will make custody orders based on the evidence presented by each parent. Parents have many resources available to teach them how to co-parent in a way that mitigates the negative effects on the child(ren). The parties may voluntarily agree to attend private co-parenting classes together or the Parenting Without Conflict course offered through the Los Angeles Superior Court. For more information about Parenting Without Conflict, please click here. In certain cases, the Court may order a Child Custody Evaluation to assist it in making appropriate child custody orders. The cost of a child custody evaluation is paid by the parents and may range in price, depending on what kind of evaluation the Court has ordered and depending on whether the evaluation is conducted through Family Court Services or a private Child Custody Evaluator. If the Court has ORDERED a Child Custody Evaluation in your case, seeking advice from a Family Law Attorney may be in your best interest. What are some signs of stress to watch out for in your children? • Acting out in school; fighting, misbehaving • Poor grades and concentration in school • Eating and/or sleeping problems • Fear of being away from one parent; clinging • Irritability and anxiety • Excessive fears or worries; excessive crying • Regressive behavior (bed-wetting, thumb sucking, tantrums) • Fear of separation or abandonment; asking for the other parent • Distress at exchanges; resistance to going with the other parent • Depression, isolation from friends, withdrawal, alcohol or drug use, threats of suicide If you need a referral to a qualified therapist able to assist you or your children cope with the psychological effects of a divorce, please refer to the list of counselors under Additional Resources. Contact the LAW OFFICE OF CATHLEEN E. NORTON at (310) 300-4021 or email Cathleen@cnortonlaw.com for further information or to schedule an appointment for a Comprehensive Consult. Disclaimer: This website provides general information and nothing contained herein should be construed as giving legal advice.  Every situation is unique so the information contained on this website may not apply to your particular situation.  You should not act upon any information in this website without seeking advice from a lawyer.  Transmission of the information is not intended to create, and receipt does not constitute, an attorney-client relationship.  The contents of this website may be an "Advertisement" as defined by The Rules of Professional Conduct and California Business and Professions Code.  The information contained in this website is not intended for residents outside the state of California.