West Chester Child Custody Attorneys Protect Your Child During Your Most Sensitive Challenges

Helping your child thrive after your divorce

Child custody disputes are among the most contentious and litigious family law matters. The Law Office of Marta S. Laynas acts as a mediator for couples who wish to resolve disputes without the time and expense of going to court. The attorneys at this firm also have significant litigation experience and are willing to do whatever is necessary to protect your child and fight for a custody arrangement that is best for your family.

Creating practical and positive child custody arrangements based on your family’s specific situation

The paramount concern for Pennsylvania courts is providing for the best interests of minor children. There is no gender preference in custody determinations, and the court may award custody to either parent. Following a divorce or separation, there are several types of custody arrangements that courts may order, including:

Shared custody arrangements are only ordered if each parent is willing to communicate and cooperate in making the best decisions for the child. A visitation schedule may also be ordered to foster contact between the child and the noncustodial parent. Supervised visitation may be required if there is a history of domestic violence or substance abuse.

What factors does the court consider when making custody decisions?

When establishing a child custody order, the court considers:

• Which parent is most likely to encourage and foster a relationship between the child and the other parent
• Past or present instances of abuse and any potential danger to the child
• The availability of extended family and sibling relationships
• The child’s preference if the child is of sufficient age and maturity
• The willingness of each party to cooperate and maintain a stable, healthy and well-balanced environment for the child
• The mental and physical heath of each parent
• Each parent’s history of substance abuse

Child custody arrangements may be subject to certain modifications in the event of a material and substantial change in circumstances on behalf of either parent. Modifications are only made if the court determines that they are in the best interests of the child. Parental relocations are a common hurdle that may affect custody determinations. The attorneys at this firm routinely help clients throughout West Chester and southeastern Pennsylvania modify and enforce custody agreements.

Get help from West Chester family law attorneys who provide valuable legal guidance and compassion for any child custody obstacle

The attorneys at The Law Office of Marta S. Laynas resolve even the toughest cases using constructive mediation, negotiation and litigation strategies. Appointments are available weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Additional appointment times are available if needed. Call 610-692-3460 or contact the firm online to discuss your case and schedule an initial consultation.