As a parent, you have your child’s needs in mind when making decisions that impact them. This not only includes the exciting times in life, such as where they will grow up, what school they will attend and the religion they will practice, but it also includes the challenging times, such as establishing a child custody order during a split or divorce from their other parent.
Child custody
Going from being with your child full-time to a lesser amount of time is emotional and can be a difficult situation to accept. The Law Offices of Marilyn J. Belew, P.C. understands that this is an emotional process that requires attention that is both detailed and personalized to our clients. Our attorneys seek an optimal outcome for our clients, and that can look vastly different from one parent to the next.
Depending on the situation, child custody can be reached in various matters and can look significantly different from matter to matter. Whether a child custody order was established through negotiations, mediation, collaborative law, arbitration or litigation, it is important to understand that it is not set in stone. Changes are possible if the situation or need arises.
Enforcement, modifications and future concerns
As a child grows and changes, so do their interests and needs. This could warrant the modification of legal decisions concerning the child or making changes to the physical custody of the child. If a parent fails to follow the order or the other parent interferes with their parenting time, this may require an enforcement action. Lastly, if concerns regarding safety or abuse arise, it may be necessary to take legal action to protect your child.
It is instinctual to protect and fight for your child; however, child custody matters can fog the situation. While the child is the focal point in this family law issue, you cannot avoid thinking about yourself, your wants and your needs as it relates to you as a parent and your relationship with your child. As such, it is important to understand how you can protect your rights and interests as a parent while focusing on the best interests of your child. And if you have any legal questions or concerns, a legal professional can provide answers and clarity for you.
