For families with children, making decisions regarding child custody and visitation is one of the most emotional aspects of divorce. Whether you were married to your partner when your child was born or share a child with a partner, both parents have legal rights and obligations that can be exercised when it comes to custody and visitation.
If you are a parent going through a separation or divorce, child custody is likely one of your main concerns. Consult a Southbury child custody lawyer about the different types of custody arrangements. Every family has a unique dynamic, so what works best for you and your children should be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Our dedicated family law professionals understand the gravity of custody decisions and will advise you of your options.
In general, there are two types of custody parents need to consider. Physical custody refers to the child’s living arrangements, while legal custody refers to the parent’s right to make day-to-day decisions about their life.
When one parent has primary physical custody, the noncustodial parent is entitled to visitation. In a shared physical custody arrangement, the child will alternate between living with each parent, which is a common arrangement. Sole custody is when one parent has physical custody of the child because the other parent is unfit. The exact parenting schedule will ultimately be decided by a judge, who will consider what is in the child’s best interests. However, parents can work with their attorneys to develop a visitation schedule that meets their needs.
Legal custody is a parent’s right to make important decisions about their child’s religion, education, health care, and other issues that may arise. Typically, courts presume it is in the child’s best interests for parents to share joint legal custody and decision-making abilities unless one parent is deemed unfit.
Parties who want to establish sole legal custody may argue this by providing evidence to the court that the other parent’s input would be detrimental to the child. A skilled Southbury attorney can represent parents seeking to establish a custody arrangement.
When determining child custody, the court will always defer to the parents if they have an agreement regarding custody and visitation. However, if the couple cannot agree and the issue is contested, the judge may ultimately have to rule on custody and visitation. Relevant factors they might consider when making their decision include:
When parents can reach an agreement through their attorneys, not only does it save them time and money, but it also gives them more control over their child’s custody arrangement. An experienced child custody lawyer in Southbury can help parents reach a fair agreement prioritizing their child’s needs.
Whether you need to establish a custody arrangement for your child, enforce an existing custody order, or modify placement based on a change in circumstances, our dedicated family attorneys can help. A Southbury child custody lawyer will discuss your options for a custody arrangement, help designate a visitation schedule, or file a post-judgment motion in family court.
Child custody battles can take an emotional and financial toll on families. Although everyone wants what is best for a child, parents can disagree on what this means. A knowledgeable legal professional from our firm will recommend an arrangement that accounts for your child’s best interest while preserving your parental rights. If you need assistance with a child custody dispute, contact our office.
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