Second only to financial support, such as spousal support or child support, child custody creates more tension and disagreement than most other issues in a divorce proceeding. Child custody and visitation are closely related as both involve access to the children play an important role in determining child support.
Child custody is closely considered and evaluated by the court. The overall well-being, care and maintenance of the child is the primary concern in all child custody cases. Often in divorce proceedings, one or both spouses try to discredit the other side in an attempt to persuade the court to award child custody in their favor.
St Charles County Divorce Attorney Mike Watkins has more than 30 years of experience in family law. We work diligently to avoid the bitter, counter-productive practices used by many divorce lawyers. we argue your case on the basis of facts and what is in the best interest of the children. We provide the court with financial, personal and psychological reasons in support of your request for custody.
Types of Custody
As in most states, Missouri recognizes two types of child custody:
Legal Custody
A parent awarded legal custody has decision making authority regarding medical, educational, and religious matters impacting the child.
Physical Custody
A parent may be awarded temporary or sole physical custody but be barred from making decisions only a parent with legal custody can make.
In many cases, parents may share both legal custody and physical custody, known as joint custody. Still, many times only one parent may be awarded both legal and physical custody, known as sole custody.
Our attorneys know resolve matters in a timely matter saves you money. We work efficiently and diligently to represent your needs fairly. Negotiation can save you time and money. We help clients find alternative dispute resolution solutions including mediation, especially when both parties take a fair and reasonable approach to divorce.
Contact us today to learn how our expertise can assist you in achieving your desired outcome. We can provide you with sound legal advice through the divorce process whether in court or through mediation (alternative dispute resolution). Our family law attorney will provide a FREE Consultation to help you understand your options.
