Custody and parenting time ("visitation") issues often prove to be the most difficult in a divorce. You have probably heard that the court considers the "best interests of the children" in resolving this issue. However, the best interests of the children not only means different things to different people, but also different things in different matters. Each matter is unique and will turn on its own particular facts.
Should one party have primary custody? If so, what parenting time should the other party receive? Should the parties share custody equally? Has one party actively tried to alienate the children from the other party? If so, what impact does this have on custody and parenting time? Should the parties seek mediation, an independent custody evaluation or both? Can you find an agreeable settlement or will you need to go to trial? What are your rights if your ex-spouse violates the terms of the agreement or court order?
Further, the traditional roles of parents are changing, particularly when both parents work. The "norm" often no longer is the workaday dad and stay-at-home mom. Consequently, traditional resolutions of child custody, such as "dad gets every other weekend and the parties divide vacations and holidays" often no longer provide an appropriate fit for children or parents. Children require a more balanced result to satisfy their best interests, and the courts increasingly recognize as much.
What should you expect in this difficult process? You should expect your attorney to listen carefully to your relationship with your children and to your spouse's relationship with your children. You should expect your attorney to listen carefully to all relevant factors and to provide an accurate assessment of what to expect in the event of settlement, or, if necessary, trial.
You need an experienced attorney to guide you to the most favorable result you can obtain. I have that experience: I have successfully tried child custody matters; I have successfully negotiated child custody agreements. The key to a successful result is a thorough understanding of your goals, a thorough preparation of the facts and an aggressive representation of your interests consistent with the best interests of your children. You need to be treated fairly; I can promise you will be.
Contact Me Today
Call me at 908-336-0268 or send me an e-mail to schedule a meeting with an experienced child custody lawyer in Somerville, New Jersey. I look forward to hearing from you. Your initial consultation is an important step in securing and protecting your legal rights.
