Adams County Child Custody Lawyer

Adams County Child Custody Attorney

Dealing with child custody matters can be some of the most emotionally challenging aspects of family law. Whether you are navigating a new divorce or need to modify a pre-existing custody order, it’s important to understand what legal options you have and what you are responsible for. In these contentious moments, an Adams County lawyer can offer the support you need to make the most informed decisions possible and move forward with peace.

At Kinnett & Cordes, we have seen up close and personal how delicate these child custody disputes can be. The sheer emotional weight alone can make it difficult to think clearly and know what to do next. This is why whether you are negotiating a custody agreement, addressing enforcement issues, or are in need of amending a previous agreement, an Adams County child custody lawyer at our compassionate law firm helps take the legal burdens off your shoulders by using our knowledge and experience to get the job done.

What Are the Most Common Child Custody Disputes in Adams County?

Child custody disputes can be some of the most emotionally charged legal cases, as they often involve deeply personal decisions about a child’s future that might conflict with their other parent. It’s helpful to know some of the most common types of custody conflicts so you can better understand what to expect and how to address these issues effectively.

Some of the more common child custody disputes include:

Legal Custody Disagreements

Legal custody grants a parent the authority to make decisions about a child’s upbringing. This can be regarding their education, medical care, religious practices, and any other forms of extracurricular activities. Due to the sheer influence decisions like these have, conflicts are very common. For example, one parent might prefer their child to be brought up through the public school system, while the other parent would like to see them go to a private academy.

When these disputes happen, the court will always prioritize what is in the best interest of the child. A judge will evaluate each parent’s ability to make rational decisions, how involved they have been in their child’s life, and how willing they are to cooperate with the other parent. In some instances, the court will award a shared legal custody arrangement. This will require both parents to collaborate on major decisions and maintain an open level of communication.

Relocation Disputes

Relocation disputes occur when one parent wants to move to a new area, which would make it difficult to maintain an existing shared custody arrangement with the other parent. These types of moves can significantly disrupt the existing arrangement and the child’s relationship with the parent who is not relocating.

For example, it’s not unreasonable for a parent to want to seek a better job opportunity that requires a move. However, it’s equally as important that the non-relocating parent is not penalized for wanting to stay where they currently are and maintain the bond they have with their child. When this happens, the court will weigh many different factors and pitch some options for what arrangement could balance everyone’s needs.

Allegations of Unfit Parenting

When there are accusations of unfit parenting, this can escalate custody disputes to an entirely new level of intensity. These allegations might involve claims of substance abuse, mental health issues, or even domestic violence. For example, one parent might argue that the other’s substance abuse is creating an unsafe environment for a child to be raised in. This parent will need to provide compelling evidence that links their behavior to negative repercussions on the child.

FAQs

Q: What Factors Do Courts Consider When Determining Child Custody in Adams County?

A: The courts in Adams County will always prioritize the interests of the children when deciding on a child custody arrangement. While parental preferences are certainly considered, a preference will never be able to outweigh negative consequences to a child’s well-being. A judge will look into the stability of each parent’s home environment, their work schedules, and how willing they are to cooperate with one another when making their final decision.

Q: Can Grandparents or Other Relatives Seek Custody of a Child in Adams County?

A: Yes, there are scenarios where a grandparent or other relative is able to seek custody. This typically happens when neither biological parent is able to provide a safe and stable home environment for the child to be raised in. In many cases, this is due to substance abuse, the parents being incarcerated, or a history of neglect. When this happens, the court will assess whether awarding custody to a relative will minimize any negative impact on a child.

Q: How Are Custody Disputes Resolved If Parents Cannot Agree?

A: If both parents are unable to reach an agreement on custody, the courts will need to intervene. This process typically begins with mediation, which is where a neutral third-party will step in and help the parents negotiate a mutually agreed upon arrangement. If this fails, the dispute will need to advance to trial. The court will then take the time to listen to both sides of the case and issue a final custody order based on which scenario favors the child’s well-being the most.

Q: What Role Does Child Support Play in Custody Decisions?

A: While child support and custody are separate decisions to be made, they are related. It’s true that the amount of child support one parent pays does not directly determine a final custody arrangement. However, the parent who receives custody must be able to demonstrate that they are going to be able to financially support the child’s most basic needs, like providing shelter, food, clothing, and more.

Contact Kinnett & Cordes Today

If you need a strong attorney to help manage your custody battle, contact the lawyers of Kinnett & Cordes today. We have years of experience serving parents in Adams County who are looking to secure a promising arrangement for themselves and their children. We would be honored to extend these services and help you out in this time of need.