Easton, Pennsylvania (610) 258 - 7079

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Child Custody

This involves each parent’s right to make decisions for the child (referred to as legal custody), and the right to have the child reside with, or visit, a particular parent (referred to as physical custody). This is commonly the most contentious part of a divorce. Pennsylvania courts decide child custody issues based on “the best interests of the child,” a set of factors derived from the child’s age and maturity, proximity to common areas, and relationships with parents and other relatives. I can advise you on how these factors can affect your custody wishes, whether you seek to establish a custody order or modify an existing one.

Child Custody

This involves each parent’s right to make decisions for the child (referred to as legal custody), and the right to have the child reside with, or visit, a particular parent (referred to as physical custody). This is commonly the most contentious part of a divorce. Pennsylvania courts decide child custody issues based on “the best interests of the child,” a set of factors derived from the child’s age and maturity, proximity to common areas, and relationships with parents and other relatives. I can advise you on how these factors can affect your custody wishes, whether you seek to establish a custody order or modify an existing one.

In Pennsylvania, child custody arrangements are made in accordance with the “best interests of the child.” The thought behind this is that both parents play an equally important role in the child’s life. However, special circumstances are taken into consideration that may affect the arrangement, such as if one parent does not take an interest in the child.

At the family law office of Ellen S. Kingsley, in Easton, Pennsylvania, I strive to help individuals and families develop child custody solutions that promote healthy relationships between parents and their children. Whether you live apart from your child’s other parent due to a divorce or separation, I will offer the quality representation you deserve while forming a suitable custody and visitation plan.

My Divorce and Family Law Practice

I inform and advise clients on the various forms of child custody:

  • Joint custody: In the realm of the law, both parents have the responsibility to care for the child.
  • Sole custody: Under a sole custody situation, one parent has the responsibility of care for the child.
  • Legal custody: Both parents have legal guardian status. This means they can sign health records, take control over the child’s financial affairs and have other legal rights regarding the child.
  • Physical custody: This situation refers to where the child will live. Sometimes, the courts will appoint a parent primary custody, providing a principal home for the child and granting the other parent visitation rights.

Child custody matters are complex because there are many different arrangements, and each one has different implications for the family. For instance, a parent may have sole physical custody of a child, but share legal custody with the other parent. As your attorney, I can advise you on which arrangement is best for your family, and on specifically what serves the interests of your children. I will help you negotiate the agreements through open discussions with the other party or will aggressively assert your position in court.