Additional Resources

The definitions listed above are basic and the most important concepts a parent must understand in a proceeding that involves children. These definitions are found in the Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) Section 25-401. Another important statute to know and consider carefully in every court matter involving children is A.R.S. Section 25-103. This statutory provision reads as follows: (A) It is declared that the public policy of the state and the general purposes of this title (concerning Marital and Domestic Relations) are: (1) To promote strong families: (2) To promote strong family values. (B) It is also the declared public policy of this state and the general purpose of this title that absent evidence to the contrary, it is in the child’s best interest: (1) To have substantial, frequent, meaningful and continuing parenting time with both parents. (2) To have both parents participate in decision-making about the child. It is critical in a family law case that a parent understand the connection between the concepts and definitions listed above and stated policies of this state contained in 25-103. An experienced attorney will be able to guide a parent in deciding what is the best approach in your unique and specific family circumstance. Contact an attorney to either represent you in your case so that you can obtain the best result for you and you child or at least schedule an appointment to have your situation analyzed and assessed so that you are prepared to present your case in the most effective manner once you are in court.