For divorcing parents, determining legal custody of their children can be one of the most lengthy and frustrating parts of the process. Before you undertake a custody case, it is important to gain a thorough working knowledge of the laws, guidelines, requirements, and policies that apply in your jurisdiction. Each state has its own unique process for determining legal custody. Children at the center of a custody case are often consulted by legal experts, helping professionals, and investigators during the determination process. However, states differ on the way that they handle a child