If you are in a custody dispute or think you may be headed there, you will ?nd this book invaluable. Chapters 1 through 3 explain the basics: what custody really means and how it is determined, as well as when and how custody and visitation can be changed. In discussing the various custody factors, this book will give you tips about what speci?c kinds of information the court will be looking for, what facts can help or hurt your case, and how to present evidence in your case in support of each custody factor. Chapter 5 discusses alternatives to litigation and why resolving your case outside of the courtroom, with the help of a mediator or collaborative team, may produce a better result for your family than anything a judge could rule. Chapter 6 of this book is your courtroom survival guide. This chapter will tell you what every woman wishes her attorney would take the time to tell her in detail about court, including tips that can make or break your case. You will learn what to wear, what to expect, when to stand, and when to speak. You will learn the format of a custody trial and why you are always rushing to the courthouse and then having to wait. In addition, you will learn what to do and what not to do in order to survive cross-examination. In Chapter 7, you will learn valuable (and money-saving) suggestions for working with your attorney. You will also learn important considerations for working with a guardian ad litem and other professionals involved in your case. For women who choose to represent themselves (or are forced to do so because of ?nances), Chapter 8 will give you the basics for acting as your own attorney. You will learn how to come to court prepared to present your evidence like an attorney and how to tell your story in an organized and persuasive manner. Chapter 9 will distill the information in this book to the short list - the 10 most important things to remember in your custody and visitation case.