Child custody situations can become emotionally charged because parents are concerned about the amount of time they will see their child and are concerned about a lack of decision making in regards to their children. When a parent finds themselves facing a child custody dispute or needing to acquire an order from a court, they should immediately contact a child custody lawyer in Allentown, PA.
Lawyers will provide parents with the legal information they need to make sound decisions regarding their child and will help to eliminate small errors a parent could make that could turn into a large problem. A good example of this is when a parent decides they’re not going to let the other parent have the child because they didn’t pay the required child support. These types of issues frequently occur when an individual listens to other people who do not know the legal ramifications.
Determining Custody
The courts in Pennsylvania determine child custody based on of the best interests of the child. It’s always a better situation when the parents can determine a custodial arrangement that is best for their child. When this type of situation isn’t possible, the court will determine the custody arrangements for the parents.
Types of Custody
In Pennsylvania, the courts will grant joint custody or sole custody with an arrangement for visitation. Joint custody incorporates legal custody, which is the day-to-day care and decision-making for a child. At least 35% of the custodial time will be allocated to both parents.
Sole custody is when one parent has physical and legal custody, and the non-custodial parent has visitation rights. When one parent has sole custody, the other parent will not have any right to make decisions about the child. Obtaining a clear and concise custody order requires the help of an experienced child custody lawyer in Allentown, PA.
If you find yourself facing a child custody dispute, you are being denied visitation with your child, or you are trying to obtain custody of your grandchildren, it’s important to make an appointment with a family lawyer as soon as possible. If you’re interested in adopting a child or establishing paternity, please schedule an appointment and speak with an experienced lawyer today.