Child Custody Lawyer in Columbia, MD
Assisting Clients With Child Custody Matters in Maryland
Going through a divorce is one of the most difficult experiences you can face. One of the most challenging aspects is determining who should receive custody of the children. The only thing that can make this even more difficult is trying to win custody alone; you’re much better off working with a Columbia, MD child custody lawyer.
Call Albers & Associates today at (443) 665-8030 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our Columbia child custody attorney.
How do the Courts Determine Custody?
The court system in Columbia, Maryland takes into consideration many factors when determining who gets custody and what type of custody they get. Some of the things they look at are:
- Which parent is the primary caregiver
- Whether or not a custody agreement is already in place
- The child’s age and gender
- The child’s physical and mental health
- The physical and mental health of the child’s parents
- The child’s preference regarding custody
- Which parent has the financial resources to properly care for and provide for the child
Even if you believe you are the parent who should have custody of your child, it doesn’t mean you are the one who the court will find properly capable of the responsibility. This is why it’s important to work with a professional child custody lawyer in Columbia, MD and get the legal guidance you need to ensure the best outcome from your custody case.
What Kinds of Custody Agreements Are There?
There are four main types of custody you can fight for in order to best protect your child. Temporary custody, or Pendente Lite custody, is an agreement made to grant one parent custody of the child before litigation has begun to reach a more permanent agreement.
Joint custody has three classes: 1) Joint legal custody, where parents share responsibility for caring for the child, 2) shared physical custody, where the child spends at least 35% of his or her time at each parent’s home, and 3) a combination of both joint legal and shared physical custody.
Sole custody is where one parent gets sole legal custody of the child, full physical custody of the child, or both. Finally, split custody is when there are multiple children involved and care for some of the children is one parent’s responsibility, and care for the remaining children is the other parent’s responsibility.
Where Do I Start with Negotiating a Custody Agreement?
Like other legal issues that are involved with divorce, it’s important to find a professional attorney who specializes in divorce and family law when you have children and are dissolving your marriage. The expert lawyers at Albers & Associates are here to help you every step of the way. Contact us today to get your free legal consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are Common Legal Factors Considered in Custody Cases?
In custody cases, Maryland courts focus on the child's best interests. Factors considered include each parent's capacity to provide for the child's physical, emotional, and educational needs. The court also assesses parental willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent, stability of the home environment, and any history of domestic violence or abuse. Depending on their age and maturity level, the court may also incorporate the child's preference, ensuring their voice is heard during the proceedings.
How Does Mediation Help in Custody Disputes?
Mediation is a valuable tool in resolving custody disputes amicably. It involves a neutral third-party mediator who helps parents communicate their concerns and work towards a fair and mutually agreeable parenting plan. This collaborative process often reduces hostility, shortens legal processes, and minimizes stress on the family. It’s a practical approach in Maryland, where mediation is encouraged to foster cooperative co-parenting relationships post-divorce.
Can Custody Agreements Be Modified?
Yes, custody agreements can be modified post-divorce if circumstances substantially change. Maryland courts allow modifications when they serve the child's best interests, considering new factors such as changes in a parent's health, relocation, or significant alterations in the child's needs. Legal assistance is crucial to navigate these modifications, ensuring that the revised agreement continues to optimally support the child's well-being.
Contact Our Child Custody Attorney in Columbia Today
If facing a child custody dispute, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. Our Columbia child custody attorneys are here to provide compassionate guidance and strong advocacy every step of the way. Whether you seek primary custody, negotiate visitation rights, or modify an existing arrangement, we will tirelessly safeguard your parental rights and prioritize your child’s best interests. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a fair resolution.
Contact us today to get started with our Columbia child custody lawyer.