Family Court Services Legal Terms FAQ

The right and responsibility to make major decisions concerning the child.  Major decisions include, but are not limited to, authorization for non-emergency health care, enrolling a child in counseling, choice of school, choice of religion, consent to marry, enter the military or obtain a driver's license, etc.

A situation during mediation in which an agreement on an issue cannot be reached and all possible solutions to the issue have been thoroughly discussed.  A declaration of impasse can only be made by the mediator.

Attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of the child in legal actions.  A GAL is appointed when there is a dispute on custody and placement or when the court has special concern for the welfare of the minor child.

The final court order at the end of the divorce action that settles legal custody, physical placement and all financial issues.

A lawsuit filed to legally dissolve (end) a marriage.

A finding the court makes after a hearing that one parent has intentionally violated the terms of the court order.

An obligation to provide financial support for the benefit of the child.  This is usually ordered by the court.

A written statement of fact, sworn to be the truth by the person signing the document, and signed in front of a notary public.  This is the first step a parent must take to voluntarily request mediation.