Child Custody & Support Analysis Flashcards
7 cards from real CDA practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Child Custody & Support Analysis flashcards as text
Which international treaty governs the return of children wrongfully removed from their country of habitual residence?
Answer: The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction
The Hague Convention on International Child Abduction (1980) establishes a mechanism for the prompt return of children wrongfully taken across international borders.
A divorcing couple has a special needs child who will require lifelong support. How should a CDA advise regarding child support duration?
Answer: Many states allow or require support to continue beyond the age of majority for disabled children
Numerous states have provisions that extend child support obligations past the standard termination age when the child has significant mental or physical disabilities.
A parent repeatedly violates a court-ordered parenting plan by withholding the child during the other parent's scheduled time. What legal remedy is most appropriate?
Answer: File a motion for contempt of court and potentially seek make-up parenting time
Contempt proceedings are the standard remedy for parenting plan violations; courts can order make-up time, fines, or other sanctions against the non-compliant parent.
Which factor is LEAST likely to influence a court's determination of the best interests of the child?
Answer: Which parent has higher earning potential
Courts focus on parenting capacity and the child's well-being, not on which parent earns more, which is more relevant to calculating support amounts.
What is a Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in a custody proceeding?
Answer: A court-appointed representative who advocates for the child's best interests
A Guardian ad Litem is appointed by the court to independently investigate the child's circumstances and advocate for their best interests, separate from either parent.
Under most state guidelines, which expense is typically handled as an 'add-on' above the base child support amount?
Answer: Unreimbursed medical expenses and work-related childcare costs
Add-on expenses like uninsured medical costs and childcare are calculated separately and shared proportionally between parents beyond the base support obligation.
A parent files for an emergency ex parte custody order. Under what circumstance is an ex parte order appropriate?
Answer: When there is an immediate threat of serious harm to the child requiring urgent court action
Ex parte orders are reserved for genuine emergencies—such as imminent abuse or abduction risk—because they deprive the other party of notice and a hearing.