Divorces can be complicated for the whole family, especially when deciding on child custody. As a result, you need the services of a good child custody lawyer to make the divorce smoother.
The average divorce rate in the US is at a staggering 11.42 divorces per 1000 in 2021. Divorce lawyer’s services are highly demanded as people try to solve the separation amicably.
Separations get more complex when children are involved since they’re much more delicate. Custody hearings are always chaotic, with everyone’s emotions flaring up. Working with a child custody lawyer as your representation guarantees a cordial correlation.
You’ll require all the help you can get while handling the child custody and divorce case. Hiring a divorce attorney helps eliminate the stress of divorce proceedings. Continue reading to learn 5 reasons why you should hire a child custody lawyer.
Should I hire a child custody lawyer?
Indeed, hiring a lawyer for child custody disputes is generally advisable. Here’s why:
Expertise in Family Law
Attorneys are trained to understand the nuances of family law.
They can help navigate the complexities of your case, providing a much-needed understanding of local laws and court procedures.
Effective Negotiation
Lawyers have vast experience in negotiation, which can be especially important in child custody cases.
They can use their skills to help you reach an optimal agreement with the other parent, aiming to minimize conflict and protect your interests.
Understanding of Legal Procedure
Child custody proceedings can be filled with paperwork, deadlines, and complex legal procedures.
Lawyers can ensure that all procedures are correctly followed, avoiding potential setbacks or penalties.
Objective Advice
An attorney can provide an objective perspective, helping to manage emotions during what is often a stressful and emotionally charged time.
They can provide sound advice and clear thinking, which is crucial in making the best decisions for your child’s welfare.
Advocacy
A lawyer is an advocate who will fight for your rights.
They will present your case in the best light, increasing your chances of a favorable outcome.
While it is technically possible to handle a child custody case without a lawyer, the stakes are typically too high to do it alone. Expert advice and representation from a seasoned professional can be invaluable in ensuring the best possible outcome for both you and your child.
The Functions of a Child Custody Lawyer
Before looking at why you should hire them, you need to understand what child custody lawyers do.
Child custody attorneys have experience in handling divorce matters. They’re conversant with the divorce process, thus helping solve disputes about children.
Here are some activities that child custody lawyers handle;
• Guiding you through paperwork filling
• Represent you in court when handling cases involving your kids
• Assist with the formulation of a custody agreement
• Ensure that the child custody schedules and visitation are properly agreed on
• Takes the lead in negotiations involving both parent’s claims of child custody
Here are 5 reasons you should hire a custody lawyer during your divorce
1. Fair Child Support Negotiation
Suppose custody has been awarded to your spouse. Are you happy with what you have to contribute? Child support is a huge cause of concern for most divorces, with many people deeming them unfair.
The courts use their information on your sources of income to award the child support. Issues might arise in the future, and you’d hate to go over the child support negotiations again. Returns to court can be expensive and mentally taxing and thus should be avoided.
The child custody lawyer handles the child support negotiations to ensure fairness. They already know how much you can manage and ensure the figure remains fair for all parties. You’ll thus reduce your chances for a back-and-forth collision over child support.
2. To Modify an Existing Custody Order
Are you not satisfied with the existing custody arrangement? If yes, you should hire a child custody lawyer to revisit the terms of the existing agreement.
It’s possible that you’ll feel that the custody agreement doesn’t work for you down the road. You must modify an existing custody order with the help of a divorce attorney. Changing a custody order can be quite lengthy, which is why you need their help to ease it.
Changing the custody order is complicated, given the applicable legal requirements. The change can be hard to agree on, which is why child custody lawyers help find common ground. You’ll thus enjoy speedy modifications to fit current needs.
The child custody lawyer lodges your complaints and ensures you have a case. You’ll have a better chance of having your way by hiring the best divorce lawyers in the business.
3. To Settle the Case Peacefully
Coping with divorce is hard, and it is hard for both parties to think straight with the emotions involved. Divorce lawyers help settle the case amicably without triggering your emotions.
It’s understandable if you don’t want to see your partner after the separation. Handling the negotiations on your own can make the situation more frustrating. Hiring divorce lawyers leaves the work to them, ensuring you have peace of mind.
As professionals, child custody lawyers cushion you for the difficult court process. Their knowledge in previous cases assists in de-escalating the situation should conflict arise. An amicable negotiation ensures speedy deliberations on the child’s interests.
You’ll thus have an easier time dealing with them instead of being fully involved. Check the divorce lawyer’s practice areas to ensure they’re suitable for the job.
4. Changes in Your Case
Have there been changes in the facts surrounding your custody agreement? You should see a child custody lawyer if you believe in any way the changes affect your agreement.
Common changes include a partner relocating or job changes. There’s also the question of children’s needs as they grow older, which you must factor in. The circumstances changing mean you should revisit your agreement for a better outcome.
It’s no surprise that reopening the case can be hard on you, but child custody lawyers are here to help. They see the case through to find you a more favorable custody agreement.
5. You Believe Your Children Are in Danger
Do you believe your children are not safe? If yes, you should hire a child custody lawyer to determine the best course of action.
The danger indicators include;
• Poor living conditions they have been subjected to by the other parent
• Bad parent attitudes
• Previous incidences of drug or substance abuse
• Signs of harassment or harm inflicted on the children
Child safety is the priority in any custody agreement, and its breach can be a deal-breaker. The child custody lawyer helps you seek emergency relief for child protection.
Hire a Child Custody Lawyer Today
Divorce can be hard, which is why you need divorce lawyers to help you through it. Child custody lawyers represent the child’s interest when there’s been a separation. The above guide indicates why you should hire a child custody lawyer during your divorce.
Are you looking for a child custody lawyer? Duncan Family Law is happy to help!
We’re a Denver and Los Angeles-based law firm whose focus is to offer legal counsel for your divorce. Our commitment to handling your child custody case ensures you peace of mind.
Contact us today to request an appointment with your Child Custody Lawyers.
