Child Custody

questions & answers

Question: can one of the parents in a joint custody get the child mental health healthcare and or in crisis, without the other parent signing and or agreeing (knowledge)

Answer: There isn't a single or simple answer to your question because it depends on the language of your decree.  Sometimes parents will have joint legal decision-making (custody), but one parent will have primary authority for medical decisions.  Other decrees require both parents to agree on any significant medical decisions.  You should discuss this issue with a lawyer if you and your ex cannot agree.  There are three programs in Arizona that you can use to get inexpensive legal advice and guidance.  One is the modest means program.  You will need to apply for the program and meet the financial qualifications.  Once you are qualified, Modest Means will send you a list of attorneys whose practice covers your area of concern.  You select a lawyer from the list and will be entitled to a one hour consultation for $75.  If you need additional help and if the lawyer agrees to take your case, the most you will be charged is $75 per hours.  the telephone number is (866) 637-5341.  Both Maricopa County and Pima County have lawyer referral programs that offer a 30 minute consult with an attorney.  Maricopa County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute consult with an experienced attorney for $40.  The telephone number is  (602) 257-4434.  Pima County's Lawyer Referral Service offers a 30 minute attorney consult for $35.  The telephone number is (520) 623-4625.  If there is a real crisis or emergency and you are unable to reach the ex, the law allows a parent to act.