PET CUSTODY BATTLES

Although pet custody battles, may sound unusual, it is increasingly becoming common.  A survey by the matrimonial lawyers found that 90 percent of the pet-custody battles were about dogs.  For many divorcing couples, the pet is like their child.  It has been reported that there is a shift occurring in our society in which the pet is considered more a member of the family and thus becomes a part of the divorce battle.

I recall a case last year involving a custody dispute over a white poodle.  The parties ended up reaching a custodial plan wherein both parties shared joint legal and physical custody of the dog.  One party had the dog on alternate weekends and a mid week overnight.  Both parties equally shared in the medical expenses of the dog.

Generally, pets stay in the home where the children primarily live.  However, if the splitting couple does not have children, then the issue becomes complicated.  Usually, some type of custodial schedule is put in place so that both parties have quality time with the pet.

Read more from the Tribune newspapers: The Hartford Courant.

Article Submitted By: Attorney Daniel Gold