A Child Custody Lawyer Considers What’s In Best Interests Of The Child

A Missouri child custody lawyer doesn’t take the matter of child custody lightly. Whether making the determination for sole custody or joint custody or a combination of the two, it is an important issue that needs to be examined at length in order to ensure what’s best for the child. Custody, both legal and physical, and how they intertwine, can impact the lives of all involved. Having an experienced Missouri child custody lawyer who makes the children a priority when handling the case is very important.

Child custody is a sensitive issue that can lead to contention and hostility between parents. When they are unable to reach a mutual agreement regarding custody, it can lead to court intervention to determine each of their rights and obligations, Which means that a judge will determine the custody arrangements. A Missouri child custody lawyer can help you settle on a mutually acceptable parenting agreement to present to the court for approval rather than having the court determine those parental rights and responsibilities for you.

The parenting plan can be agreed to by the parents through negotiation and/or mediation. 

A child custody lawyer will help devise a parenting plan that includes important points for both legal and physical custody.  

Factors a Missouri child custody lawyer and the courts take into consideration include:

• Each parent’s wishes.
• Each parent’s willingness to actively perform their functions as mother and father for the needs of the child.
• The interaction and interrelationship of the child with parents, siblings, and any other person who may significantly affect the child.
• Which parent is more likely to allow the child frequent, continuing and meaningful contact with the other parent. This is often looked at as the most significant factor in a contested child custody case.
• The child’s adjustment to the child’s home, school and community.
• The mental and physical health of all individuals involved, including any history of abuse.
• The intention of either parent to relocate the principal residence of the child.
• The wishes of the child.

Family law has specific requirements regarding child custody. Kim Scheuerman is one of our firm’s experienced family law attorneys and is available to speak with you about which type of custody is in your child’s best interests. As a Missouri child custody lawyer, Kim strives to promote her client’s interests and achieve long-lasting solutions that are best for the whole family. She focuses on representing clients facing divorce, legal separation, paternity, child custody, modification, child support, and relocation issues.

The Levy Craig family law team makes client satisfaction, good communication and strong, effective advocacy a top priority. To schedule a consultation, please call 816-454-7474.