If you and your spouse are getting divorced, the most important issue is likely to be how to share time with your children. Hiring the best Child Custody attorney can help you navigate this complex legal process and ensure that your parental rights are not compromised. A family law lawyer can explain state laws and legal procedures regarding custody arrangements, as well as provide valuable advice and guidance on your options.
Generally, courts decide what is in the best interests of a child when determining custody and visitation. Often, this involves evaluating the home environment of each parent and how well each can care for the child. A judge may also look at each parent’s ability to support the child’s lifestyle and educational needs. If there have been allegations of abuse by either parent, a judge will take these allegations seriously and may order an evaluation of both parents and the children.
Most states have regulations that cover both legal and physical custody. Some states use different terminology, however, so it is important to consult a lawyer in your area to get more information about the differences between these types of arrangements.
In contested custody cases, the court will typically require an expert to conduct an assessment of both parents and children. This usually includes meeting with the parties several times and observing their interactions with one another. The expert will then submit a report to the court and, if necessary, provide testimony during a hearing. This type of assessment is expensive and time consuming, and it should not be taken lightly by the parents.
The family law attorney in Knoxville can assist you in drafting a parenting plan that will establish the terms of custody and visitation for your child. If both parents can agree on a plan, it can save you time and money in the long run, as you will not have to go through the lengthy legal process of fighting for your rights in court. In many situations, parents can enter into an agreement outside of court that works for them and their families.
Valliant & Harrison serves clients in the Knoxville metro and helps them settle custody and visitation disputes. Its attorneys have more than four decades of experience and are skilled at negotiating with the opposing party. The firm can also assist you in modifying or enforcing child support orders. Its attorneys also have extensive knowledge of criminal defense and land use law. They are committed to providing a high level of service to their clients. They strive to understand each client’s goals and help them reach their objectives. They can also represent you in cases involving domestic violence, drug charges, and probation violation. They offer free initial consultations.