Child Custody

Every divorce in which children are involved and in every paternity suit, both parents must address the issue of co-parenting, which involves legal custody, parenting time and child support.

Legal custody and parenting time are based on the best interests of the child.

Factors that are taken into consideration with the judge may be the following:

• Who will be the Child’s primary caregiver.
• A Child’s Wishes (This is taken into consideration if the child is old enough to understand and testify).
• The state of parent’s health and wellbeing.
• A Child’s religious or moral training.
• Which parent will facilitate a relationship with the other parent and relatives?
• Is there evidence of drug abuse, alcohol abuse or domestic violence within the household.
• A Child’s relationship with other family members of the household.
• Child educational interests.
• As well as many other factors.

 
If you and your spouse are looking to negotiate a parenting plan or thinking about revising one, it is important to retain an attorney who can correctly advise you about your rights and responsibilities.  Many unrepresented parties and inept lawyers draft parenting plans without a full understanding of their future impact. The Butterfield Law Firm has a detailed understanding of how families change and what potential pitfalls may occur in the future if great co-parenting is not set into place. We will work hard to create a blueprint of a strong parenting plan that puts your family in a winning situation both now and in the future.