questions & answers

Question: I recently lost my son to my girlfriend she called the cops on me and took my son we were having a lot of problems, but she didn't want to worked them out ,now that she's left she has a tempted to let my son come over so I can see him ,but she keeps putting it off and she won't pick up the phone to set up another day so I can see my son ,but she won't pick up the phone what rights do I have as a father that loves his son so much and she doesn't care that I see my son I found out while she was living with me she was cheating all this time, it's not right that she's keeping my son from me.

Answer: If there is a dispute about custody, the court sometimes refers the parents to internal court mediation services. This process gives the parents an opportunity to reach an agreement regarding custody and related issues; however, if the parents are unable to agree on custody, the court will decide for them. Sometimes the court seeks professional advice from outside experts who evaluate the family situation or offer an opinion about custody. In some situations, the court also may order an investigation by a social service or other agency. In every case, the court must decide custody based on a determination of the best interests of the child. A.R.S. 25-403.