Who Gets to Keep the Dog in a Divorce
Pet custody is an interesting though sometimes heartbreaking, subject. As with rules, guidelines, and laws surrounding divorce in general, each state has its own statutes regarding pet custody in divorce. When it comes to determining who retains custody of a pet, there are two different possibilities. 1. Some states treat pets as they do minor children. A decision is made by either the couple in a successful mediation or by a judge if the case goes to court. There will be a visitation schedule set up outlining what days and for how long the party who does not have custody of the pet will be allowed time with their pet. Parties are expected to abide by the pet visitation schedule just as they would a child visitation schedule. 2. Many states, including Florida, consider pets as part of the marital assets, which will be either equally or equitably distributed in the final divorce decree. (Equal distribution states are New Mexico, California, Texas, Arizona, Washington, Wiscons...