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Last Modified on Feb 06, 2026
Divorce settlement conferences offer parents an opportunity to work out child custody and support in a way that centers on the best interest of the child. By learning how child custody and support are handled in divorce settlement conferences in Louisiana, you can put fear and anxiety aside. You may also want to understand how child support works in Louisiana before your conference begins.
Divorce Settlement Conferences
When going through a divorce, parents may decide to participate in divorce settlement conferences with their attorneys to work through just a few remaining issues without going through formal, expensive litigation. Parents may need to make decisions about:
- Legal custody
- Physical custody
- Financial support and communication
All decisions made at divorce settlement conferences are subject to the “best interest of the child standard. Even when parents agree on many issues and only a few remaining issues remain to be determined at a conference, Louisiana judges must ultimately approve the agreement to ensure it meets these legal requirements. Our team can help you prepare for what to expect during your divorce settlement conference to ensure your rights are protected.
Louisiana Data
In 2023, Louisiana’s marriage rate was 3.7 per 1,000 inhabitants, according to the CDC. The importance of divorce settlements, particularly those involving children, was highlighted by the fertility rate of 60.4 births per 1,000 females aged 15-44 and the divorce rate of 0.9 per 1,000. Marriage and divorce rate data are more than just numbers, they indicate you are not alone. When you’re going through a divorce, it can be helpful to know that others are in the same position.
Also, this information also highlights your need for reliable legal representation. Don’t try to handle a divorce case alone, especially if you have children. Statistics like this often reveal the risks of self-representation. Those without counsel are significantly more likely to receive unfavorable settlements when going through a divorce. Thankfully, you can hire a skilled Lafayette divorce lawyer to protect your interests and those of your children.
Custody in Divorce Settlement Conferences
A settlement conference allows parents to discuss child custody in a non-adversarial way. Both parents should come to the conference ready to discuss how they will share custody of the children. The agreement will detail both the parenting schedule and which parent gets legal custody for making important decisions.
Instead of arguing over who gets custody, divorcing parents can discuss the logistics of their unique situation. During these conversations, you may discuss:
- The weekly parenting schedule
- Weekend and holiday schedules
- School breaks
- Transportation
- Communication regarding children
An experienced Louisiana divorce settlement conference attorney can guide you and your family through these discussions. They let you focus on what is most beneficial for your child instead of battling with your former partner.
How Child Support Is Addressed
When parents discuss support during the divorce settlement conference, they focus on the best interests of the child. Topics of conversation can include reviewing previous years’ tax returns, discussing expenses that you currently share, and planning for the future costs of your child.
Some things to discuss with your co-parent during a settlement conference regarding support can include:
- Education
- Daily needs
- Healthcare
- Special needs
- Extracurricular activities
An added benefit of a divorce settlement conference is the ability to be creative. If your family has unusual circumstances, you can discuss your specific needs during the conference.
Hire a Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer
An attorney can discuss your available options, including whether a divorce settlement conference may be helpful as part of your divorce. Ultimately, it’s worth discussing your situation with an attorney if you are nervous about confronting your ex or feel overwhelmed at the idea of discussing your children’s future. Having a Louisiana attorney by your side can provide peace of mind and comprehensive support.
FAQs
What Should I Avoid Doing During a Divorce Settlement Conference?
During a settlement conference, there are a few things that you should avoid doing, including communication issues with your child’s other parent, cancelling your parenting time, disparaging the other parent to your child, disregarding mutually agreed-upon routines, and failing to cooperate with the other parent.
Ultimately, behavior that can be perceived as putting your disagreement with the other parent ahead of the needs and interests of your child can negatively impact your divorce matter.
Who Usually Wins the Custody Battle in a Divorce Settlement Conference?
Both parties can “win” the custody battle in a divorce settlement conference. Custody rulings don’t mean that one parent “wins” and another one “loses.” A successful conference can help both parents feel satisfied with the agreement. Parents who can show that they are consistent, involved, and willing to promote a positive relationship with their children’s other parent usually have an advantage.
What Should I Say to a Judge in a Custody Case?
What you should say to a judge in a custody case depends on the situation. Courts want to see that parents can communicate respectfully and with the child’s best interests in mind. Remaining calm, avoiding blame, and explaining how your parenting plan meets the needs of your child can go a long way. Parents who put the needs of the child first typically make a better impression than those who try to engage in combative behavior during a hearing.
What Is the Biggest Mistake in a Custody Battle in a Divorce Settlement Conference?
The biggest mistake in a custody battle in a divorce settlement conference is keeping anger or resentment at the forefront of decision-making. When you employ your children as tools for revenge against your spouse, you reject any form of compromise or long-term stability. This tends to make your credibility suffer. Remain calm and stay focused on your children. Thoughtful, child-centered decision-making has a better chance at producing long-lasting results.
Speak with a Trusted Divorce Settlement Conference Lawyer
At Laura L. Davenport, LLC, we assist families in Lafayette with divorce and other family law issues. We have extensive experience with a variety of divorce matters, including a track record of success with divorce settlement conferences. Our approach to family law prioritizes the needs of your child by providing practical solutions during and after divorce.
If you are going through a divorce with children, the experienced team at Laura L. Davenport, LLC can help protect your family’s future. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
