Divorce and Family Law

Negotiating Family Court

A divorce or custody/placement dispute is often one of the most emotionally difficult and stressful matters for parties to litigate.  Having a seasoned family law attorney with you in the courtroom can make all the difference in the world.  Whether you believe your case will be resolved or contested, seeking out an experienced family law lawyer like Johansen Law Office, S.C. is fundamental.  

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The Process

Generally speaking, litigants involved in a dispute over their children are first referred to mediation through the Douglas County Family Court Commissioner.  If mediation proves unsuccessful, and depending on the nature of the dispute, the Court will appoint a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) to represent the best interests of your children.  The Guardian ad Litem is another licensed attorney and acts as the lawyer for your children.  With some exceptions, the Court will order the parties to split the costs of the GAL.  The GAL will investigate the case and will eventually provide a recommendation to the Court as to what he or she believes is in the child's best interest.  The Court considers the recommendation but is not bound by it.  The Court will consider all of the evidence and issue a decision in the best interest of the children.