Mansfield, MA Child Custody Lawyer

Mansfield, MA Child Custody Attorney

Experiencing a divorce is a challenging and trying time. When minor children are involved, emotions can run high, and you are likely to find yourself concerned about their well-being. In moments like these, you deserve the counsel and representation of a compassionate and caring Mansfield child custody lawyer. At Farias Family Law, P.C., our attorneys understand the stress our clients are under and will do whatever we can to support them through this time.

Even in instances when a divorce is amicable, it can be incredibly difficult for the children involved. The courts in Massachusetts are aware of this and will specifically consider your child’s interests when making their final rulings on custody arrangements. When your relationship with your children is at stake, you deserve someone who will aggressively fight for your parental rights and help you show the court why your plan is in your child’s best interests.

Common Types of Child Custody in Mansfield, MA

In the state of Massachusetts, there are two main types of child custody, and each type has different implications for your relationship with your child. The two main types of child custody in Massachusetts are as follows:

• Legal Custody: Unless there is a significant issue regarding one of the parents, the courts prefer to allow both parents legal custody of their shared minor children. This allows the parent or parents with legal custody to have the ability to make decisions regarding their children’s health and education. Ultimately, legal custody also allows one or both parents to make decisions regarding how the children are raised.
• Physical Custody: This type of custody determines which parent is the primary caregiver of the minor children and which parent the children will mainly live with. To help ensure the children’s stable upbringing, it is not uncommon for courts to award physical custody to only one parent and will usually keep sibling groups together. Visitation is usually applied when one parent has sole physical custody.

The noncustodial parent in Mansfield, MA will have the right to visitation with their child, pending no significant negative circumstances. These visitation rights are typically arranged between the two parties; however, if there are any concerns about a parent being able to appropriately care for their child, the courts can intervene.

Why Farias Family Law, P.C. Is the Right Choice for You and Your Family

The skilled attorneys at Farias Family Law, P.C. understand the complex legal matters that are often involved in child custody cases. With more than 100 years of combined experience shared between our team, we can work diligently to protect your rights and the future livelihood of you and your children. We have the tools and techniques necessary to find and present evidence for your case and can handle any aspect involved in your child custody case.

At Farias Family Law, P.C., we can provide honest counsel and advice in our approach to your specific child custody case. Our attorneys understand the stress that often accompanies these cases and can work to develop the most favorable possible outcome for you and your children. In times of tension and uncertainty, we are here to offer a shoulder to lean on and representation you can place your trust and confidence in.

How Custody Is Determined in Massachusetts Courts

In the state of Massachusetts, the courts will determine what is in the child’s best interest. When making this determination, a judge will often take the following factors into account:

• The age of the children involved
• Which parent is typically more involved in the day-to-day life of their children
• Where each parent lives now that they are separated/divorced
• The stability of each parent and their household, both physically and emotionally
• If age-appropriate, the child’s wishes.

FAQs

How Much Does a Custody Lawyer Cost in Massachusetts?

In the state of Massachusetts, it can be difficult to assign an exact estimate of how much it may cost to hire a custody lawyer. This is due to the fact that there are often several factors wrapped up in these types of cases that can impact the final cost. These factors might include the specific details of your case, the experience of your divorce attorney in Mansfield, and their location.

How Can I Prove the Other Parent Is Unfit in a Massachusetts Child Custody Case?

In the state of Massachusetts, the courts might consider several factors when determining a parent’s ability to retain custody. These factors might include a history of alcohol or drug abuse, their ability to provide the children with a safe living environment, any allegations or convictions of domestic violence, and their willingness to be an active part of their children’s lives.

How Can I Prepare for a Child Custody Case in Massachusetts?

With any family law case, preparation is key to your chances of a successful outcome. If you show up to court unprepared, the case will most likely not go well for you. In order to ensure your own preparedness, you can gather all your income tax returns, bank statements, and other records of a financial nature. You can also prepare a financial statement and complete any other forms your attorney deems necessary.

At What Age Can a Child Make Custody Decisions in Massachusetts?

In the state of Massachusetts, a child cannot make a decision on their own custody until they are 18 years of age. However, courts can take into account and consider the wishes of the child and the preference they might have for who they would want as their custodial parent, as long as that child is deemed rational and mature enough to hold that opinion for themselves.

Contact a Trusted Family Law Lawyer Today

If you or someone you love needs to undergo the potentially difficult process of creating a child custody agreement, it is essential to retain the services of a trusted and experienced child custody attorney today. You deserve someone who will take your interests to heart and can do whatever it takes to protect your rights and wishes.

Contact the offices of Farias Family Law, P.C. today to learn how we might be able to help you. The road to creating a child custody agreement can be troublesome, but you don’t have to walk it alone.