Parenting Plans for Everyone's Benefit
For many parents, their worst nightmare is not being able to spend time with their children whenever they want. The knee-jerk reaction is to say, "I want sole physical custody — or 50/50 at minimum!" The reality is that, in many cases, one parent will become the primary residential parent. One parent will become the one responsible for middle of the night ear aches, doctor appointments, homework and chore schedules, the soccer practice shuttle and getting dinner on the table. However, each situation is unique and your reality may be different.
Children typically benefit from routine. So do adults. Our law firm will seek to find a new routine (parenting plan) that works for both parents as well as the children.
Contested Custody Considerations
From our Silverdale law office, we have helped generations of married and unmarried people, primarily women, navigate through contested parenting issues. There are times when having a primary residential parent (sole physical custody) is the best plan. There are several instances when you may benefit from aggressive legal representation from a skilled family law attorney.
- If a spouse shows manipulative or controlling behavior, you'll want to get out in front and anticipate issues and options. This can be anything from seizing financial assets, to protection orders, to court ordered psychological evaluations, to family counseling.
- If one of the parents has mental health or substance abuse issues such as schizophrenia or drug addiction, you'll want to protect yourself and the children.
- If a spouse has ever exhibited physical violence or has anger issues, that may be a legitimate reason to seek sole physical custody.
- If a parent has a demanding work schedule or travels frequently, that could be a parenting concern that will come into play.
- In rare cases such as those with child abuse or neglect or domestic violence, a Guardian Ad Litem may be assigned by the court. As your lawyer, we spend a great deal of time working closely with the Guardian Ad Litem to protect your children, and facilitate your access to them.
From our Silverdale, Washington, law office, we represent primarily women in all matters related to child custody. Your call is confidential. Call 360-633-2036 or use this contact form.
