Navigating complex child custody and visitation often requires extensive knowledge of family law. When parents can’t agree on custody arrangements or visitation schedules, the case can become complex, lengthy, and costly for both sides.
The emotional toll can be overwhelming for the entire family, and having an experienced attorney on your side can help take the weight off your shoulders. Understanding local laws is essential for parents seeking to protect their rights and maintain meaningful relationships with their children.
Experienced Multi-State Child Custody Attorneys
With the United States having an overall rate in the 2020s of 2.3-2.5% divorces per 1,000 Americans, legal disputes are common. Founded in 2007 to serve families across multiple states, Stange Law Firm, PC, concentrates on family law matters.
We help our clients with legal strategies tailored to their unique circumstances. Our attorneys understand the importance of compassion and transparency in family law cases and provide their direct contact information for timely updates on your case.
Founding partner Kirk C. Stange has served as a mentor to other attorneys through the Missouri Bar Mentoring Program. With his years of experience both as an attorney and as a support to those at Stange Law Firm, PC, you’ll be able to receive the help you deserve in your case.
Child Custody and Visitation Laws
Divorce can be complex and emotionally draining, especially when figuring out the appropriate type of shared parenting plan for your child. Due to the unique situations and emotional dynamics of each family, custody and visitation can become complex quickly.
In the United States, the average number of people per household was 2.54 as of 2023, making families with children common among Americans. To get legal custody or visitation rights as a parent, you’ll need to get a court-approved parenting plan that details each parent’s time and individual responsibilities with your child.
Before filing, reaching out to an experienced child custody lawyer can help you understand the different documents and forms you’ll need. After you file, the court often issues a summons that must be served on the other parent. Filing deadlines vary state-to-state, and a family law lawyer can provide you with specific guidance based on your circumstances.
If the other parent does not respond, the court may continue the case without their involvement. If they do respond, the court might require both parents to attempt mediation. Mediation is a legal process in which a neutral person helps both parties reach an agreement on custody and visitation.
If no agreement is reached, the judge or commissioner typically schedules a hearing. You’ll be expected to present evidence, such as witness testimony or documents, to support your claims. This can include:
- Proof that your child has access to regular medical care near your home.
- Your work schedule, including flexibility to care for the child before and after school.
- Financial records that show you can provide food, housing, and other daily essentials.
- Information about a support system involved in your child’s life.
- A proposed schedule that shows you can meet transportation and activity needs.
- Communication records showing cooperation or lack thereof between parents.
After hearing the case, the judge typically issues a final custody judgment. United States courts act in the best interests of the child. Once a parenting plan is approved by the court, it becomes a legally enforceable order, and any interference with court-ordered parenting time may require further legal action to resolve.
Why Choose Us?
Stange Law Firm, PC, has long-term experience in multiple states, helping parents navigate all things relating to custody. Our team understands the sensitive nature of child custody and visitation and works to ensure our clients feel validated and understood.
Your attorney can offer you their direct contact information for any questions regarding your case, and you’ll be able to receive monthly case updates. Our clients also receive secure access to Your Case Tracker, our online portal for case documents.
FAQs
Q When Can You Deny Visitation to the Non-Custodial Parent?
A: While specific laws vary by your state, a judge may deny or restrict visitation if it would endanger the child’s physical health or harm their emotional development. The court must consider any evidence of domestic violence. Even if abuse occurred, the judge may still allow visitation if it is believed to benefit the child. If visitation is granted, the court must ensure that protections are in place for the child and the abused parent.
Q: What Do Judges Look for in Child Custody Cases?
A:
The judge typically considers a variety of factors when assigning custody and visitation, such as:
- Each parent’s wishes
- Proposed parenting plans
- The child’s need for strong relationships with both parents
- Each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs
- The child’s home, school, and community life
- Mental and physical health of all involved
- Any history of abuse
- Plans to relocate
Q: What Deems a Parent Unfit?
A: A parent may be deemed unfit due to anything that could potentially jeopardize their child’s safety or development. This includes a variety of circumstances, such as addiction, abuse or neglect, abandonment, failure to provide adequate care, or exposure to domestic violence.
Mental health issues that impair parenting ability may also be considered. The court requires clear and convincing evidence before labeling a parent as unfit, as this is a serious designation that significantly affects custody and visitation rights.
Q: Do Judges Always Grant 50/50 Custody?
A: Custody plans vary depending on the state you live in. It’s important to work closely with a family law attorney to understand the full scope of state laws and expectations. Courts act in the best interest of the child, not based on individual parental feelings. Working together with your ex can help make the process more streamlined and easier on your child.
Contact a Trusted Child Custody and Visitation Attorney
Child custody and visitation disputes can involve extensive legal disputes depending on your family’s unique situation. If you are dealing with challenges related to custody arrangements or visitation rights, contact Stange Law Firm, PC, today to discuss your case in a confidential consultation. We assist clients across multiple states with custom-fit legal care.
