Custody and Visitation Guide for Self-Represented Survivors of Domestic Violence
Custody and Visitation Guide for Self-Represented Survivors of Domestic Violence
If you're a domestic violence survivor with children and don't have a lawyer, this guide can help you decide whether a divorce or custody case can help you. If so, it can help you follow the court rules and meet legal requirements, so you have the best chance at an outcome that is safe for you and your children.
The guide contains general legal information about child custody applicable throughout Pennsylvania and specific information on procedures in Philadelphia.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
2 Safety
3 Protection from Abuse Versus Custody and Divorce
4 Can the Court Help?
6 Before You Start
8 Emergency Options
9 People
11 Words to Know
13 Parenting Plans
14 Agreements
15 Paperwork
17 Custody Standards
19 Relocation
21 Mediation
22 Hearings
26 Appearing in Court
27 Evidence
28 After the Final Order
30 Resources and Services
