What to Expect from a Child Custody Dispute
When you and your child’s other parent have decided to end your relationship, things can get messy. Unless your split was amicable, you could be looking at a difficult child custody dispute, where you’ll need to fight for your parental right to custody of your child.
In the following article, we discuss the different types of child custody arrangements and components you should include in your parenting plan. If you have further questions, or would like professional advice throughout the process, enlist the help of a qualified child custody lawyer in Indiana.
Types of Child Custody
There are two main types of child custody: physical custody and legal custody. Each of these can be further categorized as being joint, in which both parents have equal responsibility; partial, in which one parent has primary responsibility; and sole, where one parent has complete responsibility of the children.
A physical custody arrangement details where the children will primarily live. For joint physical custody, the children will reside with both parents equally. A partial physical custody plan allows one parent to have the children primarily, while the children will spend less time but still reside with their other parent. Sole physical custody means the children live with one parent and only have visitation with their other parent.
Legal custody refers to parents making key choices in regards to their children’s lives, including their religious upbringing, medical care, education, and other important decisions.
In Indiana, the courts will always do whatever is deemed to be in the best interests of the children involved. So, when you’re in a child custody dispute, no matter how upset you are with your child’s other parent, you need to always be moving toward a resolution that is best for your children.
Developing Your Parenting Plan
Once you’re able to agree on a custody arrangement, you’ll need to build your parenting plan. This often includes when you’ll see your children, how frequently you’ll see them, where your children will spend holidays and summer vacations, and the like.
You might also discuss the issue of child support. Generally speaking, the parent who retains primary physical custody of the children will receive child support from the noncustodial parent. Your attorney can assist in establishing your parenting plan so your family can begin to move forward with their lives.
Get Help From an Indiana Child Custody Lawyer
When you’re gearing up for a challenging child custody dispute, you might need to enlist the help of a qualified Indiana child custody lawyer at Rowdy G. Williams Law Firm. We can be by your side throughout the process to ensure you aren’t taken advantage of and that your parental rights are respected.
You can schedule your initial consultation today by calling our office at 1-812-232-7400 or by completing the convenient contact form below.
