Child Custody and Support Attorneys

A top priority of family law professionals is ensuring the welfare of children. There are many things to be considered in any family law case. However, any case involving children is a top priority of a family court. No matter what process you are going through, your case will be approached from the perspective of an attorney who understands the specific needs and sensitivities of family law cases.

Child custody disputes are some of the most emotionally-charged and challenging parents and guardians face. Custody decisions are typically made by determining what is in the child’s best interest. Child custody disputes may cause significant harm to a child if not handled by experienced child custody lawyers. 

Providing optimal support for children is also one of the most critical concerns of any parent. An experienced child support attorney can work to ensure that the outcome is the best and most appropriate for your child. If you are involved in a child custody or child support dispute, contact a family law attorney.

Common Concerns
The following are common concerns about child custody and child support:

Custody Determination

For a family court to grant a parent or guardian custody, the court must find that the person, called the custodian, a fit and proper person with the best interests of the children in mind. Mothers are not favored over fathers. When things are equal, mothers and fathers will have equal rights to their children’s custodial care. 

Sole Custody

In a ruling of sole legal custody, one person has sole decision-making power over the child. This custodial parent typically has primary physical custody of the child.

Joint Custody

In a ruling of joint legal custody, there is shared decision-making power over the child. It does not necessarily mean shared physical custody of the child. Joint custody is shared decision-making power and shared physical custody of the child, but it does not necessarily mean physical custody is equally shared. For successful joint custody, the parents must communicate effectively and cooperate in parenting their children together.

Visitation Rights

One parent may have custody, but the other has the right to have visitation with the child. No general rules exist about when and how much visitation is granted to the noncustodial parent. That determination depends on various factors, including:

  • The children’s schedules
  • The ages of the children
  • The work schedules of the parents
  • How far apart the parents live

Custody decisions are not necessarily permanent. Custody and visitation arrangements are subject to change when the parents’ circumstances and those affecting the child’s best interests change substantially. In some cases, the court may consider the wishes of older children. However, the children cannot decide on custody or visitation issues.

Get the Help You Need for Custody and Support Issues Resolving family law issues is a complicated legal process. There is no one-size-fits-all situation. Each case is unique and personal. You and your family deserve to have specialized attention from attorneys who focus on your needs. Contact a family lawyer today to schedule an informative consultation.