Joint Custody or Sole Custody?

There are times when shared or joint custody does not work, even though many people and professionals believe that a shared parenting arrangement is ideal. Obviously if a restraining order is in effect, it is almost impossible to confer and make joint decisions. Sometimes, a child's best interest may be served when one parent makes all of the decisions. When you believe that full or sole custody is necessary, you need experienced legal representation from a lawyer who can advocate your position in Court or through alternate dispute resolution. Contact our office today for experienced advice and representation.

When to Seek Sole Child Custody

Many reasons exist that suggest a sole custody arrangement. Reasons include:

• When the two parents cannot communicate without starting arguments
• When the other parent is actively using drugs or abusing alcohol
• When the other parent has mental illness that affect the ability to communicate and decisions that are good and promote a good and healthful child
• When the other parent has neglected or abused the child

When these reasons exist, we will take the actions that we and you agree are necessary for the best interest of the child. If essential, we may also seek to get an ex-parte / emergency order of custody. If you are defending a claim that the other parent wants sole legal custody, we will work with you to defend against false allegations. We will fight to expose the truth and encourage a custody arrangement that protects the child from danger or being caught in the middle of a dangerous situation.

At appropriate times, supervised visits at the court or with a trusted family member may be appropriate to allow the child to be with the parent and avoid inappropriate behavior.

Custody disputes require us to work with outside experts, such as psychiatrists, social workers and often, a Guardian Ad Litem. We will explain to you when the need may arise and inform you of the various costs involved of working with these experts.

Contact Us

Whether you are seeking joing custody or sole custody of your children, you will want to talk with and experienced family lawyer so that your interests will be protected. Contact us at 508-369-3162 to schedule a free consultation.