Child custody through divorce: Navigating the courts and building a custody schedule that works with Michael Fried

Michael Fried, a family law attorney at Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein joins me to help parents navigating divorce better understand what to expect when it comes to child custody, how courts make custody decisions, and how to create a parenting agreement that truly serves their child's best interests.

Together we explore:

• Why today's courts increasingly begin with the assumption that children benefit from strong relationships with both parents, and what that means for custody decisions.

• The common mistake parents make when approaching custody and why "winning" isn't actually the goal.

• What judges are really looking for when determining a child's best interests.

• How to think about 50/50 custody, and why there isn't one schedule that's right for every family.

• The developmental factors that should shape a parenting plan, from toddlers to teenagers.

• Practical strategies that help children adjust to living in two homes with greater security and less stress.

• The communication tools that can reduce conflict and make co-parenting more successful, even when the relationship between parents is strained.

• What parents should document during a custody case and when it makes sense to revisit a parenting agreement as children grow.

Whether you're considering divorce, actively navigating a custody arrangement, or simply want to better understand how to protect your child's emotional well-being through a separation, this conversation offers practical guidance grounded in both legal expertise and child development.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:

🔗 Michael L. Fried

🔗 Berkman Bottger Newman & Schein LLP

💻 5 Minutes with Fried

📱 LinkedIn: Michael L. Fried IG: @bbnsfamilylaw FB: Berkman Bottger Newman Schein LLP

LEARN MORE ABOUT ME:

🔗 Dr. Sarah Bren

🔗 Check out my group practice, Upshur Bren Psychology Group, offering therapy and coaching for individuals, children, parents, and families

📱IG: @drsarahbren

ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RESOURCES:

📱 Our Family Wizard - A safe platform that takes care of all communication during divorce and co-parenting

👉 Navigating separation or divorce? Upshur Bren Psychology Group offers specialized support at every stage of the process, including therapy and coaching, parenting and co-parenting support, family therapy, and weekly divorce groups for women and children. Whether you're in the middle of a split or adjusting to a new family structure, our team is here to help you and your children feel steady and supported. Visit upshurbren.com to learn more or schedule a free 30-minute consultation call to find the right support for your family.

CHECK OUT ADDITIONAL PODCAST EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about busting divorce myths and breaking down the true effect it has on children Michelle Dempsey-Multack

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode with preventative steps to reduce the risk of children forming insecure attachments during divorce with Una Archer

🎧 Listen to my podcast episode about whether "nesting" during a divorce is better for your kids