With Custody, Your Child Comes First
It is understandable that one of the most contentious, difficult moments in any divorce is when you and your child’s other parent sit down to discuss parenting your children. Your children benefit the most from a balanced, stable and loving adult presence, and your custody and support orders should be designed to provide them with that by setting proper expectations and reducing opportunities for conflict.
No matter how many disagreements you and your child’s other parent may have, the ultimate reality is that you are always your child’s parent, regardless of the status of the relationship between you. I’m Jaime A. Cheret, Esquire, and I work to keep the focus where it should be: on creating a cooperative environment to co-parent your child. Receive the benefit of a balanced approach and nearly two decades of experience from my office in Catonsville. Make an appointment to meet with me via my online contact form.
Co-Parenting Can Be Challenging
Negotiating your custodial arrangements may take only a few months, but for most parents, once the case is complete, the real challenge is the many years of co-parenting ahead.
The goal should be a cooperative, conflict-free process where your child knows they are loved by each parent. If your child or children are young, this process will last more than a decade. I use my experience as an attorney to look beyond stressors like divorce and to help you achieve your goals for your custody agreement and parenting plan.
Creating The Custody Agreement You Need
When we meet, I will review with you in-depth:
- The difference between legal and physical custody
- How to design a parenting plan that works for your family’s schedule
- What you can do to create a plan that is both comprehensive and flexible
- How courts determine child support using Maryland guidelines and how to obtain an optimal agreement for your circumstances
Maryland family courts use the child’s best interest as the standard to judge any agreement. I can help develop clear rationales that support your perspectives for your child and their best interest. When you work with me, you truly work with me. I will learn the details of your case and your family and help you achieve your goals in a responsive and efficient manner.
What Do Courts Consider In Child Custody Cases?
Understanding what courts look for in child custody cases can help you prepare. Courts focus on the best interest of your child. They consider factors like the child’s age, health and emotional ties to each parent. The courts may also take the child’s preference into account, depending on age and maturity.
Stability is key, so the court looks at each parent’s living situation and ability to provide a safe environment. They also consider the child’s relationship with siblings and the willingness of each parent to support the child’s relationship with the other parent.
It’s important to recognize that the courts do not consider factors like the parents’ income, social status or lifestyle when making custody decisions, unless they adversely affect a child’s well-being.
Out-Of-State Parental Relocation
Relocating out of state when you share custody can be complex. You cannot just leave with your child without consequences. You need permission from the court or the other parent. This ensures the move is in the child’s best interest and maintains their relationship with both parents.
Before moving, you must file a notice and possibly modify the custody agreement. After moving, keep communication open and facilitate visits.
If you wish to contest a request for relocation, I can help you build your case and pursue solutions that preserve your time and relationship with your child.
Whether you are the parent wishing to relocate or want to stop your child from moving away, it is vital to have a supportive advocate on your side who understands the law and can guide you through the process.
Modifying Existing Custody Orders
Life changes, and so can custody arrangements. If circumstances change, you may seek a custody modification. This requires showing a material change in circumstance, like changes in a parent’s living situation or a child’s needs that make the existing order impractical. You must also show that the modification serves the child’s best interest. The process involves filing a petition and possibly attending a hearing.
I can guide you through this process, ensuring your case meets the criteria for modification and advocating for your rights and your child’s needs.
Contact Me For Help
Parenting is hard no matter the circumstance, but you can take away some of the conflict and chaos by taking appropriate legal steps. Speak with me about your parental rights and managing your legal needs: 410-394-9126 or fill out my online contact form.