A Custody Attorney is a lawyer who works on child custody cases and other family law matters. A good custody attorney is one who has a firm grasp on state law and how it applies to each case. They also need to be good at explaining the case in a way that a judge will understand, and they will need to have experience in the courtroom.
Parents may need a Custody Attorney because of a disagreement about legal and physical custody, visitation, or other aspects of a parenting plan. They may also need a lawyer to enforce a current custody agreement or to file for a change in custody. A lawyer will help their clients through each step of the legal process and will work to achieve a fair result.
Hiring a qualified child custody lawyer can be a complex task, and many people do not know where to start. Some sources of recommendations include friends and family, but you can also find information about lawyers by visiting your local bar association’s website. This will give you the details about an attorney’s experience, practice areas, and any past client reviews.
Most states have their own laws about custody, so it is important to hire a knowledgeable lawyer who knows how the courts will interpret the law in your particular area. You should also make sure the lawyer you choose has a strong understanding of child custody law, including issues such as grandparents’ rights and domestic violence. A good custody attorney will also be skilled at negotiating and mediating in high-stress situations.
Contested child custody cases are much more expensive than uncontested ones. This is because attorneys spend a lot of time on filing paperwork, conducting investigations, and preparing for contested court hearings. It is also common for a co-parent to use skeletons in the closet to try to influence the court’s decision, and this can add to legal fees.
A lawyer can also help their clients develop a comprehensive parenting plan, which will outline how each parent will be involved in the child’s life. This will cover everything from decision-making responsibilities to extracurricular activities. This plan will also set a clear schedule for when the child will be with each parent.
Lastly, a custody attorney can assist their clients with filing petitions to request a specific outcome from the court. They can also handle other family law matters, such as alimony, property division, and divorces. They may also advise their clients on adoptions and foster care. In some states, adoptions must be handled through the family court before a child can be adopted. The legal process for adoption is lengthy and complicated, and a lawyer can help parents navigate it. They can also work with social workers and therapists to ensure that the best possible outcome is achieved. They can also help with a guardianship, which allows a person to take legal responsibility for another’s minor children. This is commonly seen with grandparents or other relatives of the children.
