In a litigation case, either party can ask for Temporary Orders, which govern the parties while the divorce is pending. Temporary Orders deal with the temporary use of property, who pays what bills, temporary custody and visitation, child support, spousal support, medical support, payment of attorney’s fees, appointment of a parenting coordinator or a therapist, appointment of an amicus attorney to represent the children’s best interests, and injunctions, all during the pendency of the divorce case. If the family has a need for Temporary Orders and the parties are not able to reach an agreement, the matter can be set for hearing, and the judge will rule after hearing evidence. The judge will order one of the attorneys to draft the temporary orders, which are submitted to the court for the judge to sign.
Some courts require mediation before a hearing on Temporary Orders when child custody is at issue.