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April 28, 2010
State Must Prove Defendant's Knowledge of Driver's License Suspension
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Who Gets the Pooch?
August 17, 2009
Topic: Family
One of the most hotly contested issues in the divorce arena involves determining which party will be awarded custody of the family pet. Often, legal documents are drawn up or incorporated into the marriage dissolution agreement designating who will have custody of the dog and providing visitation rights to the other party. Sometimes, the parties are unable to come to an agreement, and the issue must be decided in court. Most dog-owners can understand the bonds that people form with their pets and, if something were to happen to their relationship with their significant other, would want to keep the dog. Unfortunately, these conflicts are sometimes motivated not by affection for the dog but by a desire to frustrate and grieve the other person.
Unlike child custody determinations, which are based on statutory factors and have strict procedures, dog custody disputes are resolved in a variety of ways across the country. The most interesting and theatrical way is through a “calling contest.” Often seen in movies, a calling contest consists of placing the animal between the parties, who will call the dog and attempt to get it to run to them. The person the dog runs to is the one to whom custody is given.
Disputes like these can be costly, time-consuming, and emotional. Often, these issues can be avoided with a written agreement. If you would like to know about how you can secure the future of your best friend and ensure that you will not have to part with it, or have a similar property distribution issue, contact us today.
